Rivers, canals, and water bodies in Alaska’s Kobuk Valley National Park have experienced a sudden and alarming change in color to orange, sparking concerns among scientists and ecologists. Wildlife photographer Taylor Rhodes captured the peculiar orange hue in the rivers, leading to investigations into the cause.
Ecologist Peatrick Sullivan from the University of Alaska Anchorage highlighted the severity of the issue, indicating potential pollution. Traveling along the riverbanks with his team, Sullivan tested the water’s pH and discovered significantly low oxygen levels, with a pH level of 6.4—100 times more acidic than normal river water. Visible signs of sulfuric acid and elevated iron levels were also noted, rendering the water non-potable.
The affected area includes the Salmon River, a major river in Kobuk Valley National Park, along with numerous streams spanning the valley. The region’s remoteness has historically reduced the likelihood of pollution, making the sudden color change a cause for concern.
In the 1980s, the water in Kobuk Valley was crystal clear, showcasing the foothills and hosting vibrant pink-colored salmon. However, approximately one-third of the Salmon River, covering about 110 kilometers, has turned orange, along with at least 75 streams.
Scientists are exploring potential explanations for this phenomenon. One theory suggests that minerals surrounding the river might be releasing acid, potentially linked to climate change. Another theory proposes that a substantial amount of iron from beneath certain bedrocks has come into contact with water. A third theory involves the possibility that bacteria are changing their habitat on a large scale, flowing along the river and altering its color.
Kobuk Valley National Park faces predictions of a temperature increase of 10.2 degrees Celsius by 2100, leading to the melting of 40 percent of permafrost. This could release organisms and chemicals that have been frozen for millions of years, contributing to the changing conditions observed in the region.
Further investigations and monitoring are underway to determine the precise cause of the color change and assess its environmental impact in the long term.
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