Anchorage, Alaska – Rivers and streams in Alaska are undergoing a startling transformation as thawing permafrost exposes minerals such as iron, resulting in a rusty orange hue that poses risks to wildlife, according to a recent study.
The Arctic is experiencing the most rapid warming globally, causing the frozen ground to melt and release minerals into waterways, altering the water’s chemistry and endangering the ecosystem. This unforeseen consequence of climate change is affecting some of the most pristine rivers in the country, highlighting the urgent need for environmental action.
Researchers have observed a process known as weathering, where minerals exposed to oxygen increase water acidity, leading to the dissolution of metals like zinc, copper, cadmium, and iron. The presence of iron in particular gives the rivers a conspicuous rusty color visible even from satellite images, signaling potential harm to drinking water sources and fisheries in the Arctic region.
The phenomenon was first noticed in 2018, with rivers in northern Alaska’s Brooks Range displaying a milky orange appearance, a stark contrast to their previous crystal clear state. One particular tributary in Kobuk Valley National Park witnessed the loss of two fish species – the dolly varden and the slimy sculpin – following the rivers’ rusting transformation.
As the rivers turn orange during the summer months, researchers are keen to understand the long-term implications of this changing water chemistry in regions with continuous permafrost. Collaborative efforts between the National Park Service, US Geological Survey, and University of California Davis aim to shed light on the evolving environmental conditions in Arctic territories like Alaska, Canada, Russia, and parts of Scandinavia.
Environmental experts emphasize the critical need for addressing climate change impacts promptly, given the accelerated warming in the Arctic. By working closely with tribal communities in Alaska, researchers aim to provide accurate information about the evolving phenomenon and engage in meaningful dialogue about potential solutions to mitigate environmental damage.