A beautiful feature of the iconic lake in Yellowstone National Park is reportedly in danger of ceasing to exist due to changing global temperatures.
What's happening?
As explained by Live Science, research led by University of Wyoming scientists and published in the journal Environmental Research Letters determined the ice cover on Yellowstone Lake has yet to be altered by warming global temperatures. While this sounds like a positive development in theory, the researchers painted a much more somber outlook of what it actually means for the lake.
The scientists examined the rate of spring snowfall over the lake between 1980 and 2018 in an effort to help determine why the ice cover has been able to withstand rising temperatures. Surprisingly, the rate of snowfall nearly doubled within that time frame, and the researchers said the increase created a "buffering" effect on the ice loss in the region.
However, the scientists warned that temperatures are likely to reach a point where the snow melts and the effect disappears, which would lead to a sudden and irreversible depletion of the lake's ice cover.
"Our results, paired with recent analyses of climate projections, suggest a 'tipping point' may be coming when ice phenology abruptly changes for Yellowstone Lake," the researchers wrote.
"This tipping point will largely stem from the ongoing shift from snow to rain-dominated precipitation regimes in the fall and spring."
Why is this important?
The lake in Yellowstone National Park is located roughly 7,733 feet above sea level and spans 132 square miles. Live Science noted that the lake typically freezes over completely in late December or early January and usually thaws toward the end of May.
The diminishing ice cover can have serious implications, both ecologically and economically. The ice helps maintain water levels and protect shorelines from erosion, so less of it can reduce water levels and lead to the potential disappearance of wetlands, which are vital habitats for various species.
Also, warmer water temperatures can make the lake less hospitable for fish and other aquatic life that thrive in colder temperatures. Reduced ice cover can also lead to public health concerns, such as the increased likelihood of toxic algae blooms in warmer temperatures, which already occurred in New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee.
Economically, the ice melting sooner than usual can disrupt traditional activities, such as sturgeon spearing, ice fishing, and other lake-related events. These changes not only affect local traditions but also impact those who depend on these activities to make a living.
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Definitely 👍 What can be done about this?
While there's no quick fix to help stop the melting of ice covers, there are steps we can take to help mitigate the issue.
The primary cause of rising temperatures is dirty fuel pollution, so it's necessary to reduce our contributions to the constantly changing climate. Transitioning away from gas, coal, and oil in favor of cleaner energy sources and adopting more sustainable practices in our daily lives are essential actions that can help slow down the rise of temperatures, thereby keeping our lakes safe for the future.
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