Alarming Color Change in Alaska’s Rivers Linked to Permafrost Thaw
Remote areas of Alaska are facing a sudden change in the color of their rivers and streams, transforming from crystal clear to rusty orange, reminiscent of creamy orange juice. A new study conducted by scientists from the National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and the University of California, Davis, indicates that this change is due to rising temperatures causing permafrost thaw and release of metals into the water.
Widespread Impact on Northern Brooks Range
Researchers have observed that over the past decade, about 75 streams in the northern part of the Brooks Range have experienced similar changes. Lead author of the study and ecologist at the National Park Service, John O’Donnell, noted, «We noticed that the more we flew over these areas, the more orange water bodies we discovered.»
Visible Pollution Levels
«Some of these rivers are even visible from space, indicating significant pollution levels,» added Brett Poulin, an associate professor of ecological toxicology at the University of California, Davis. Chemical analysis showed that the polluted water bodies contain elevated concentrations of iron, zinc, nickel, copper, and cadmium. One river in the Agashashok basin had a pH level of only 2.6, comparable to the acidity of lemon juice or vinegar, leading to dead, black vegetation downstream.
