Calgary researchers have uncovered what they believe to be some of the most acidic natural water globally in the Northwest Territories. The phenomenon is a result of climate change impacting the permafrost and causing slumping, a process of land erosion, from the Smoking Hills Formation. This leads to the leakage of toxic metals and a highly acidic solution into rivers, bays, and potentially the Arctic Ocean.
During visits in 2017 and 2023, Geological Survey of Canada research scientist Stephen Grasby was struck by the scale of toxicity and acidity in the ponds surrounding the Smoking Hills. Grasby described the natural waters as producing extreme acidity and toxicity, surpassing levels found at industrial sites.
The toxic metals responsible for this occurrence were trapped in iron sulfide minerals known as pyrite, or “fool’s gold,” around 85 million years ago during active volcanism in Arctic Canada. These metals are released when pyrite is exposed to oxygen, a process that has been accelerated by the thawing permafrost and increased slumping.
Grasby noted a significant change in the landscape between his visits, with the ponds turning black and resembling oil rather than water. The high acidity levels made it challenging for equipment to measure the pH accurately. Additionally, temperatures exceeding the equipment’s capacity were detected, suggesting extreme heat beneath the surface.
The ongoing thawing of permafrost due to climate change exacerbates the situation. Carleton University’s Elliott Skierszkan highlighted the emerging impact of permafrost thaw on water quality, emphasizing the need for further research to understand and manage the consequences.
Concerns are raised about the potential environmental effects and metal contamination spreading to other bodies of water. The impact on river ecosystems, including the formation of harmful metal precipitates, poses risks to aquatic life. Grasby’s measurements revealed dangerously high levels of certain metals, indicating the urgency for more comprehensive research to comprehend the implications of climate change on the Smoking Hills.
The researchers hope that their findings will not only benefit the local communities but also stimulate further research to safeguard the pristine Arctic environment from the accelerated processes induced by climate change.
