As Rivers Run Red On The Brooks Range, Scientists Think It's Due To Metals Released From Permafrost

Red River Valleys Of Alaska 

When helicopters and space satellites looked down at parts of northern Alaska in the past decade, and saw orange-juice colored lakes and rivers, it looked like Alaska had a problem.

At least seventy-five identified Alaskans rivers have turned red. 

Analyzing the pH of the rust-covered waters, researchers found that the waterways in question really were like orange juice. They had a low pH level – "equivalent to lemon juice or vinegar", according to the U.S. Geological Survey. 

The rivers are turning to acid. 

Scientists say that harmful minerals were stored in permafrost. When the permafrost melts, the increasing minerals –  which include copper, iron, nickel, zinc and cadmium – are released and dissolved in the streams, rivers and other bodies of water. The outward sign of this, to humans, is seeing a once turquoise river turn orange. 

There is concern this will affect spawning fish – and U.S. fisheries. 

The Kenai River, summer of 2018. (Photo by Country Journal)