Long-Lasting Effects of Wildfire Pollutants on Water Quality
Wildfires leave more than just a charred landscape in their wake; they also significantly impact water quality. A recent study examining over 500 watersheds throughout the Western United States reveals that these adverse effects can persist for years.
According to the research, post-wildfire water remains turbid with elevated levels of sediment, nitrogen, and phosphorus for as long as eight years. Carli Brucker from the University of Colorado, who contributed to the study, highlights the challenges this poses for water treatment facilities.
“The biggest impact is really to the water treatment facilities themselves, and, you know, having to invest millions of dollars into increased treatments or repairing damages due to too much debris flowing into the treatment plants,” Brucker explained.
The study indicates that concentrations of sediment, organic carbon, and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus can surge to more than 100 times their usual levels after a wildfire event. Brucker points out that forested regions in the Western U.S. are particularly susceptible due to their abundant fuel sources, which exacerbate wildfire severity and increase contaminant loads.
As the frequency and intensity of wildfires continue to rise, the need for enhanced water treatment infrastructure becomes increasingly critical. Brucker emphasizes the importance of upgrading these systems to cope with the heightened challenges posed by larger and more intense wildfires.
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