One-third of Americas rivers have changed color since 1984

One-third of Americas rivers have changed color since 1984
Image: Ron Chapple Studios/Thinkstock
January 8th, 2021 | Kinsey Senkel

A new study shows one-third of Americas rivers have changed color since 1984.

Wednesdays study says much of that is rivers getting greener. Scientists say generally thats not good. It often means nasty and sometimes toxic algae blooms.

Thats happening most in the North and West. Other river segments are getting more yellow, a sign of more soil in the water which isnt necessarily a sign of ill health. Only about 5% of U.S. river segments are considered blue.

Scientists say much of the color changes come from fertilizer run-off, dams, efforts to prevent soil erosion and climate change.

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