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#           The Rusting of Arctic Rivers: Freshwater Ecosystems Respond to Rapidly Uptaking Metals      

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      By Alaska Science Center      November 6, 2023    

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The water quality of streams and rivers in the Arctic is sensitive to rapid climate change and altered disturbance regimes.

**Return to ****Ecosystems**** or ****Water**** >> ****Fish and Aquatic Ecology**

Widespread permafrost thaw, thaw-induced erosion, and wildfires have altered the concentration and flux of organic carbon, nutrients, and trace metals in Arctic rivers. Subsequently, changes in surface waters can impact the habitability for biota and growth rates for fish. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw. One consequence of these altered iron-cycling processes is the abrupt change in color (orange) of stream and river reaches, reflecting a dramatic shift in water quality. Although the exact mechanisms are yet to be determined, evidence indicates that shifting hydrological and oxidation-reduction processes associated with permafrost thaw may function to transport high concentrations of iron in dissolved and colloidal forms from thawing soils to streams. Preliminary observations suggest that orange stream reaches have higher iron concentrations, less dissolved oxygen, and more acidic water than nearby clearwater streams. Further, the conversion of streams from clear to orange water appears to reflect a considerable deterioration of habitat for benthic macroinvertebrates and fish.

In 2022, a team of USGS and NPS researchers began working on this topic with the overall goal of defining and understanding changes to Arctic rivers in Alaska to meet conservation goals of the Department of the Interior. We are partnering with the University of California-Davis, University of Alaska-Anchorage, and Alaska Pacific University to address several research objectives including: 
                                - Mapping the spatial distribution of orange streams and the onset of stream color change across national parks in the Arctic Inventory & Monitoring Network. 
                                - Quantifying the effects of iron and other metal inputs on water quality in Arctic streams and determining landscape controls on metal mobilization.  
                                - Identifying how geology, hydrology, and permafrost degradation are contributing to changes in the chemistry of Arctic rivers, with the goal to determine susceptibility and resilience to current and future changes. 
                                - Assessing consequences of shifts in stream water quality on stream biota, including biofilm, macroinvertebrates, and resident fish communities. 

Funding: USGS Changing Arctic Ecosystem Initiative and USGS-NPS Water Quality Partnership

View Media Details

View Media Details

### Study Area

### Contacts

#### Michael P Carey, Ph.D.

##### Research Fish Biologist

Alaska Science Center

mcarey@usgs.gov

907-786-7197

#### Joshua C Koch, Ph.D.

##### Research Hydrologist

Alaska Science Center

jkoch@usgs.gov

303-817-5595

#### Carson A Baughman

##### Geographer

Alaska Science Center

cbaughman@usgs.gov

907-786-7417

#### Christian E Zimmerman, Ph.D.

##### Center Director

Alaska Science Center

czimmerman@usgs.gov

907-786-7071

#### Jon O'Donnell

#####            Ecologist, National Park Service, Arctic Network           

jaodonnell@nps.gov

907-644-3696

#### Kenneth Hill

#####            General Physical Scientist , National Park Service          

Kenneth_Hill@nps.gov

907-455-0678

#### Brett Poulin 

#####            Assistant Professor Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis          

bapoulin@ucdavis.edu

530-754-2454 

### Explore Search

                      - Arctic
                      - Water
                      - Ecosystems
                      - Biology
                      - Climate
                      - Ecosystems
                      - Water
                      - rusting
                      - Arctic Rivers
                      - freshwater ecosystems
                      - river systems AND freshwater ecosystems
                      - metals

View All **

Below are other science projects associated with this project.

link

April 12, 2024

####                 Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology              

Land Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 12, 2024

####   Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology

Learn More

link

November 29, 2023

####                 Fish and Aquatic Ecology              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

November 29, 2023

####   Fish and Aquatic Ecology

Learn More

link

August 5, 2022

####                 Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project              

Alaska Science Center

link

August 5, 2022

####   Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project

Learn More

link

April 18, 2018

####                 Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology              

Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 18, 2018

####   Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology

Learn More

link

May 30, 2017

####                 Arctic – Boreal Catchment Studies              

Alaska Science Center

link

May 30, 2017

####   Arctic – Boreal Catchment Studies

Learn More

December 4, 2023

####                 Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska              

Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

June 8, 2023

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

June 8, 2023

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

June 8, 2023

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

June 5, 2023

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

June 5, 2023

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center

Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

September 1, 2022

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

September 1, 2022

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

September 1, 2022

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Tributary of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska with orange water. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

September 1, 2022

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Tributary of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska with orange water. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in the Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in the Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

August 1, 2022

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 1, 2022

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

August 1, 2022

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

Map of orange stream observations across Arctic Inventory and Monitoring Network (ARCN) parks in northern Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

August 1, 2022

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

Map of orange stream observations across Arctic Inventory and Monitoring Network (ARCN) parks in northern Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

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USGS Scientists Podcast Interviews

November 6, 2023

####   USGS Scientists Podcast Interviews

In 2023, USGS Alaska Science Center scientists participated in a weekly radio program and podcast called *Liquid Assets*, airing on KTNA 88.9 FM, a...

Read Article

Why are Arctic Rivers Turning Orange?

March 9, 2023

####   Why are Arctic Rivers Turning Orange?

Permafrost thaw may be contributing to discoloration of Arctic rivers by exposing iron-bearing minerals that were previously frozen and are now...

Read Article

The water quality of streams and rivers in the Arctic is sensitive to rapid climate change and altered disturbance regimes.

**Return to ****Ecosystems**** or ****Water**** >> ****Fish and Aquatic Ecology**

Widespread permafrost thaw, thaw-induced erosion, and wildfires have altered the concentration and flux of organic carbon, nutrients, and trace metals in Arctic rivers. Subsequently, changes in surface waters can impact the habitability for biota and growth rates for fish. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw. One consequence of these altered iron-cycling processes is the abrupt change in color (orange) of stream and river reaches, reflecting a dramatic shift in water quality. Although the exact mechanisms are yet to be determined, evidence indicates that shifting hydrological and oxidation-reduction processes associated with permafrost thaw may function to transport high concentrations of iron in dissolved and colloidal forms from thawing soils to streams. Preliminary observations suggest that orange stream reaches have higher iron concentrations, less dissolved oxygen, and more acidic water than nearby clearwater streams. Further, the conversion of streams from clear to orange water appears to reflect a considerable deterioration of habitat for benthic macroinvertebrates and fish.

In 2022, a team of USGS and NPS researchers began working on this topic with the overall goal of defining and understanding changes to Arctic rivers in Alaska to meet conservation goals of the Department of the Interior. We are partnering with the University of California-Davis, University of Alaska-Anchorage, and Alaska Pacific University to address several research objectives including: 
                                - Mapping the spatial distribution of orange streams and the onset of stream color change across national parks in the Arctic Inventory & Monitoring Network. 
                                - Quantifying the effects of iron and other metal inputs on water quality in Arctic streams and determining landscape controls on metal mobilization.  
                                - Identifying how geology, hydrology, and permafrost degradation are contributing to changes in the chemistry of Arctic rivers, with the goal to determine susceptibility and resilience to current and future changes. 
                                - Assessing consequences of shifts in stream water quality on stream biota, including biofilm, macroinvertebrates, and resident fish communities. 

Funding: USGS Changing Arctic Ecosystem Initiative and USGS-NPS Water Quality Partnership

View Media Details

View Media Details

### Study Area

### Contacts

#### Michael P Carey, Ph.D.

##### Research Fish Biologist

Alaska Science Center

mcarey@usgs.gov

907-786-7197

#### Joshua C Koch, Ph.D.

##### Research Hydrologist

Alaska Science Center

jkoch@usgs.gov

303-817-5595

#### Carson A Baughman

##### Geographer

Alaska Science Center

cbaughman@usgs.gov

907-786-7417

#### Christian E Zimmerman, Ph.D.

##### Center Director

Alaska Science Center

czimmerman@usgs.gov

907-786-7071

#### Jon O'Donnell

#####            Ecologist, National Park Service, Arctic Network           

jaodonnell@nps.gov

907-644-3696

#### Kenneth Hill

#####            General Physical Scientist , National Park Service          

Kenneth_Hill@nps.gov

907-455-0678

#### Brett Poulin 

#####            Assistant Professor Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis          

bapoulin@ucdavis.edu

530-754-2454 

### Explore Search

                      - Arctic
                      - Water
                      - Ecosystems
                      - Biology
                      - Climate
                      - Ecosystems
                      - Water
                      - rusting
                      - Arctic Rivers
                      - freshwater ecosystems
                      - river systems AND freshwater ecosystems
                      - metals

View All **

Below are other science projects associated with this project.

link

April 12, 2024

####                 Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology              

Land Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 12, 2024

####   Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology

Learn More

link

November 29, 2023

####                 Fish and Aquatic Ecology              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

November 29, 2023

####   Fish and Aquatic Ecology

Learn More

link

August 5, 2022

####                 Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project              

Alaska Science Center

link

August 5, 2022

####   Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project

Learn More

link

April 18, 2018

####                 Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology              

Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Alaska Science Center

link

April 18, 2018

####   Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology

Learn More

link

May 30, 2017

####                 Arctic – Boreal Catchment Studies              

Alaska Science Center

link

May 30, 2017

####   Arctic – Boreal Catchment Studies

Learn More

December 4, 2023

####                 Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska              

Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

#### An orange tributary joins the Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

July 17, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

#### An orange tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

June 8, 2023

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

#### Limited mixing of orange water and the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

June 8, 2023

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

#### An orange tributary mixing into the pristine Kugaroruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

June 8, 2023

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 8, 2023

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

#### Orange water from a tributary of the Kugororuk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

June 5, 2023

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

#### The confluence of the Anakok River, Sheep Creek, and the Salmon River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

#### An orange tributary of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

June 5, 2023

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

#### Orange staining along the Anaktok River 

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

#### Orange flocullent on the bed of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

June 5, 2023

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 5, 2023

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

#### Mixing of an orange tributary with clearer waters of the Anaktok River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange staining on snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center

Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange staining on snow below a seep on the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

June 4, 2023

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

June 4, 2023

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

#### Orange water and snow in a braidplain of the Nakolikruk River

link

Orange streams are increasingly common in the Brooks Range of northern Alaska. The orange stream color reflects oxidized iron, but also often indicates elevated heavy metal concentrations. Our ongoing study aims to document these occurrences and the timing of their onset.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

September 1, 2022

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

September 1, 2022

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

#### Kugururok River confluence Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

September 1, 2022

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Tributary of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska with orange water. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

September 1, 2022

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Kugururok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska

link

Tributary of Kugururok River located in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska with orange water. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Deposition on tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Deposition on tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in the Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in the Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center

Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

#### Mainstem of Salmon River, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska

link

Mainstem of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 31, 2022

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

#### Tributary of Salmon River, Alaska

link

Tributary of Salmon River located in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

August 1, 2022

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

August 1, 2022

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

#### Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River

link

Iron seep on the North fork of the Agashashok River, Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska. Recent observations from Arctic Alaska indicate that waters draining permafrost landscapes may be susceptible to iron and carbon mobilization following thaw.

Alaska Science Center, Alaska Science Center

Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

August 1, 2022

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

Map of orange stream observations across Arctic Inventory and Monitoring Network (ARCN) parks in northern Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

August 1, 2022

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

#### Map of orange stream observations across ARCN parks in northern Alaska

link

Map of orange stream observations across Arctic Inventory and Monitoring Network (ARCN) parks in northern Alaska.

Alaska Science Center

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####   USGS Scientists Podcast Interviews

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Read Article

Why are Arctic Rivers Turning Orange?

March 9, 2023

####   Why are Arctic Rivers Turning Orange?

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