This is B-roll video of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska from August 19, 2025.
Joshua C Koch, Ph.D.
Surface water / groundwater interactions; hyporheic zone hydrology and biogeochemistry; carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling; flow above / through frozen ground; preferential flow and soil pipe formation and transport.
Professional Experience
2011 - Present Research Hydrologist, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Anchorage, AK
2006 - 2011 Student Hydrologist, Branch of Regional Research, USGS, Boulder, CO
2005 - 2006 Research Assistant, Institute of Alpine and Arctic Research, University of Colorado, Boulder
2003 - 2005 Research Assistant, Semi-Arid Hydrology and Riparian Areas, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
2002 - 2003 Hydrologist Intern, Branch of Regional Research, USGS, Lakewood, CO
2001 - 2002 Hydrologist Intern, MA-RI Water District, USGS, Northborough, MA
Education and Certifications
PhD 2010 University of Colorado, Boulder, CO Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering
MS 2005 University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ Department of Hydrology
BA 2001 Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT Earth and Environmental Sciences
Affiliations and Memberships*
American Geophysical Union, Hydrology and Cryosphere Sections
American Water Resources Association - Alaska Chapter
Association of Polar Early Career Scientists
Science and Products
The Rusting of Arctic Rivers: Freshwater Ecosystems Respond to Rapidly Uptaking Metals
Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology
Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology
Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project
Groundwater Flow and Temperature Modeling to Predict Stream Temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Assessment of Critical Landscape Conditions and Potential Change in the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to Support Habitat Management Decision Making
Beavers Impacting Tundra Ecosystems (BITE)
Biogeochemistry of glaciers
Arctic Lake Food Webs
Wolverine Glacier Ecosystem Studies
Matanuska-Susitna Borough Wetland Modeling
Arctic Coastal Plain Studies
Geochemistry of Water Sources from Glacial Watersheds in Southcentral Alaska, 2019-2024 Geochemistry of Water Sources from Glacial Watersheds in Southcentral Alaska, 2019-2024
Historical Extent of Metal Mobilization Within Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) Spawning Habitat of the Noatak River Drainage Based on Landsat and Sentinel Data, 1986-2024 Historical Extent of Metal Mobilization Within Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) Spawning Habitat of the Noatak River Drainage Based on Landsat and Sentinel Data, 1986-2024
Data for Assessing the Utility of eDNA Approaches for Determining the Impacts of Metal Mobilization from Thawing Permafrost on Fish Communities in Arctic Streams Data for Assessing the Utility of eDNA Approaches for Determining the Impacts of Metal Mobilization from Thawing Permafrost on Fish Communities in Arctic Streams
In Situ Fluorometric Measurements of Cyanobacteria, Green Algae, and Diatoms in Biofilms from Northwest Alaskan Rivers During Summer and Fall 2016-2019 In Situ Fluorometric Measurements of Cyanobacteria, Green Algae, and Diatoms in Biofilms from Northwest Alaskan Rivers During Summer and Fall 2016-2019
Continuous Temperature and Specific Conductance from the Yukon River and Arctic Rivers in Alaska Continuous Temperature and Specific Conductance from the Yukon River and Arctic Rivers in Alaska
Surface Water and Groundwater Hydrology and Temperature, Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, 2022-2023 Surface Water and Groundwater Hydrology and Temperature, Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, 2022-2023
Macroinvertebrates from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019 Macroinvertebrates from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019
Hydrochemistry and Age Date Tracers from Springs, Streams, and Rivers in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 2019-2022 Hydrochemistry and Age Date Tracers from Springs, Streams, and Rivers in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 2019-2022
Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska
Length, Weight, Energy Density, and Isotopic Values of Fish from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019 Length, Weight, Energy Density, and Isotopic Values of Fish from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019
Macroinvertebrates from Streams and Springs in the 1002 Region of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, 2021 Macroinvertebrates from Streams and Springs in the 1002 Region of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, 2021
Frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) geophysical data collected near the Agashashok River in the Noatak National Preserve, AK Frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) geophysical data collected near the Agashashok River in the Noatak National Preserve, AK
This is B-roll video of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska from August 19, 2025.
This is B-roll video of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska from August 26, 2024.
This is B-roll video of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska from August 26, 2024.
This is B-roll video of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska from August 30, 2025.
This is B-roll video of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska from August 30, 2025.
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.
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.
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok Creek
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok Creek
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National Preserve
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National PreserveOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National Preserve
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National PreserveOrange 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.
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok River
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok RiverOrange 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.
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok River
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok RiverOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, AlaskaOrange 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.
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, AlaskaOrange 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.
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.
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.
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok Creek
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok Creek
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River Watershed
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River WatershedOrange 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.
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River Watershed
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River WatershedOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
This is B-roll video of the Kugororuk River in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska from July 17, 2023.
This is B-roll video of the Kugororuk River in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska from July 17, 2023.
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok Creek
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok Creek
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek WatershedOrange 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.
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek WatershedOrange 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.
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orange
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orangeOrange 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.
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orange
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orangeOrange 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.
Toward co-designed Earth System Models: Reflecting end-user priorities in local applications from a modeler's perspective Toward co-designed Earth System Models: Reflecting end-user priorities in local applications from a modeler's perspective
River ice controls permafrost bank erosion across an Arctic delta River ice controls permafrost bank erosion across an Arctic delta
Observing northern high-latitude river systems to understand changes in a warming Arctic Observing northern high-latitude river systems to understand changes in a warming Arctic
Linking permafrost to the abundance, biomass, and energy density of fish in Arctic headwater streams Linking permafrost to the abundance, biomass, and energy density of fish in Arctic headwater streams
Alaskan hydrology in transition: Changing precipitation and evapotranspiration patterns are projected to reshape seasonal streamflow and water temperature by midcentury (2035-2064) Alaskan hydrology in transition: Changing precipitation and evapotranspiration patterns are projected to reshape seasonal streamflow and water temperature by midcentury (2035-2064)
Simulating present and future groundwater/surface-water interactions and stream temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska Simulating present and future groundwater/surface-water interactions and stream temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Impacts of convective storms on runoff, erosion, and carbon export in a continuous permafrost landscape Impacts of convective storms on runoff, erosion, and carbon export in a continuous permafrost landscape
Metal mobilization from thawing permafrost to aquatic ecosystems is driving rusting of Arctic streams Metal mobilization from thawing permafrost to aquatic ecosystems is driving rusting of Arctic streams
The dominance and growth of shallow groundwater resources in continuous permafrost environments The dominance and growth of shallow groundwater resources in continuous permafrost environments
A high-resolution, daily hindcast (1990-2021) of Alaskan river discharge and temperature from coupled and optimized physical models A high-resolution, daily hindcast (1990-2021) of Alaskan river discharge and temperature from coupled and optimized physical models
A comparison of contemporary and historical hydrology and water quality in the foothills and coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Arctic Slope, northern Alaska A comparison of contemporary and historical hydrology and water quality in the foothills and coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Arctic Slope, northern Alaska
Seasonal and decadal subsurface thaw dynamics of an Aufeis feature investigated through numerical simulations Seasonal and decadal subsurface thaw dynamics of an Aufeis feature investigated through numerical simulations
Arctic Rivers Project: Connecting Indigenous knowledge and western science to strengthen collective understanding of the changing Arctic Arctic Rivers Project: Connecting Indigenous knowledge and western science to strengthen collective understanding of the changing Arctic
Science and Products
The Rusting of Arctic Rivers: Freshwater Ecosystems Respond to Rapidly Uptaking Metals
Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Ecology
Hydro-Ecology of Arctic Thawing (HEAT): Hydrology
Q&A: Arctic Rivers Project
Groundwater Flow and Temperature Modeling to Predict Stream Temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Assessment of Critical Landscape Conditions and Potential Change in the Coastal Plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to Support Habitat Management Decision Making
Beavers Impacting Tundra Ecosystems (BITE)
Biogeochemistry of glaciers
Arctic Lake Food Webs
Wolverine Glacier Ecosystem Studies
Matanuska-Susitna Borough Wetland Modeling
Arctic Coastal Plain Studies
Geochemistry of Water Sources from Glacial Watersheds in Southcentral Alaska, 2019-2024 Geochemistry of Water Sources from Glacial Watersheds in Southcentral Alaska, 2019-2024
Historical Extent of Metal Mobilization Within Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) Spawning Habitat of the Noatak River Drainage Based on Landsat and Sentinel Data, 1986-2024 Historical Extent of Metal Mobilization Within Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) Spawning Habitat of the Noatak River Drainage Based on Landsat and Sentinel Data, 1986-2024
Data for Assessing the Utility of eDNA Approaches for Determining the Impacts of Metal Mobilization from Thawing Permafrost on Fish Communities in Arctic Streams Data for Assessing the Utility of eDNA Approaches for Determining the Impacts of Metal Mobilization from Thawing Permafrost on Fish Communities in Arctic Streams
In Situ Fluorometric Measurements of Cyanobacteria, Green Algae, and Diatoms in Biofilms from Northwest Alaskan Rivers During Summer and Fall 2016-2019 In Situ Fluorometric Measurements of Cyanobacteria, Green Algae, and Diatoms in Biofilms from Northwest Alaskan Rivers During Summer and Fall 2016-2019
Continuous Temperature and Specific Conductance from the Yukon River and Arctic Rivers in Alaska Continuous Temperature and Specific Conductance from the Yukon River and Arctic Rivers in Alaska
Surface Water and Groundwater Hydrology and Temperature, Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, 2022-2023 Surface Water and Groundwater Hydrology and Temperature, Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska, 2022-2023
Macroinvertebrates from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019 Macroinvertebrates from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019
Hydrochemistry and Age Date Tracers from Springs, Streams, and Rivers in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 2019-2022 Hydrochemistry and Age Date Tracers from Springs, Streams, and Rivers in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, 2019-2022
Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska Chemistry of Orange and Reference Streams in Northwestern Alaska
Length, Weight, Energy Density, and Isotopic Values of Fish from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019 Length, Weight, Energy Density, and Isotopic Values of Fish from Rivers in Northwest Alaska, 2015-2019
Macroinvertebrates from Streams and Springs in the 1002 Region of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, 2021 Macroinvertebrates from Streams and Springs in the 1002 Region of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, 2021
Frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) geophysical data collected near the Agashashok River in the Noatak National Preserve, AK Frequency domain electromagnetic induction (FDEM) geophysical data collected near the Agashashok River in the Noatak National Preserve, AK
This is B-roll video of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska from August 19, 2025.
This is B-roll video of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska from August 19, 2025.
This is B-roll video of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska from August 26, 2024.
This is B-roll video of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska from August 26, 2024.
This is B-roll video of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska from August 30, 2025.
This is B-roll video of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska from August 30, 2025.
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.
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.
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok Creek
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok Creek
Acidic waters kill and blacken vegetation as they plunge downhill towards the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National Preserve
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National PreserveOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National Preserve
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Alaska's Noatak National PreserveOrange 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.
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok River
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok RiverOrange 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.
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok River
Orange waters mixing in to the mainstem of the Kugururok RiverOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Kugururok River in Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Bear tracks in an orange tributary of the Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Mixing of an orange tributary and Kugururok River, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, AlaskaOrange 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.
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
Drift net collecting samples in orange tributary of Anatok Creek, Kobuk Valley National Park, AlaskaOrange 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.
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.
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.
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok Creek
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok Creek
Orange staining in a side channel of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River Watershed
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River WatershedOrange 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.
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River Watershed
Emergence of acidic waters from a seep in the Agashashok River WatershedOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
An orange tributary of the Igning River, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arctus) caught in the Nakolikuruk River near an orange tributary, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
This is B-roll video of the Kugororuk River in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska from July 17, 2023.
This is B-roll video of the Kugororuk River in Noatak National Park and Preserve, Alaska from July 17, 2023.
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, Alaska
Surveying for "rusting rivers" in the Nakolikurok Creek watershed, Noatak National Preserve, AlaskaOrange 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.
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok Creek
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok Creek
Researchers following orange staining up the braidplain of the Nakolikurok CreekOrange 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.
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek WatershedOrange 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.
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed
Researchers walking to a site to sample rusting in the Nakolikurok Creek WatershedOrange 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.
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orange
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orangeOrange 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.
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orange
A seep emanates from a hillslope in the Nakolikurok Creek Watershed, blackening vegetation and staining the streambanks orangeOrange 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.
Toward co-designed Earth System Models: Reflecting end-user priorities in local applications from a modeler's perspective Toward co-designed Earth System Models: Reflecting end-user priorities in local applications from a modeler's perspective
River ice controls permafrost bank erosion across an Arctic delta River ice controls permafrost bank erosion across an Arctic delta
Observing northern high-latitude river systems to understand changes in a warming Arctic Observing northern high-latitude river systems to understand changes in a warming Arctic
Linking permafrost to the abundance, biomass, and energy density of fish in Arctic headwater streams Linking permafrost to the abundance, biomass, and energy density of fish in Arctic headwater streams
Alaskan hydrology in transition: Changing precipitation and evapotranspiration patterns are projected to reshape seasonal streamflow and water temperature by midcentury (2035-2064) Alaskan hydrology in transition: Changing precipitation and evapotranspiration patterns are projected to reshape seasonal streamflow and water temperature by midcentury (2035-2064)
Simulating present and future groundwater/surface-water interactions and stream temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska Simulating present and future groundwater/surface-water interactions and stream temperatures in Beaver Creek, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Impacts of convective storms on runoff, erosion, and carbon export in a continuous permafrost landscape Impacts of convective storms on runoff, erosion, and carbon export in a continuous permafrost landscape
Metal mobilization from thawing permafrost to aquatic ecosystems is driving rusting of Arctic streams Metal mobilization from thawing permafrost to aquatic ecosystems is driving rusting of Arctic streams
The dominance and growth of shallow groundwater resources in continuous permafrost environments The dominance and growth of shallow groundwater resources in continuous permafrost environments
A high-resolution, daily hindcast (1990-2021) of Alaskan river discharge and temperature from coupled and optimized physical models A high-resolution, daily hindcast (1990-2021) of Alaskan river discharge and temperature from coupled and optimized physical models
A comparison of contemporary and historical hydrology and water quality in the foothills and coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Arctic Slope, northern Alaska A comparison of contemporary and historical hydrology and water quality in the foothills and coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Arctic Slope, northern Alaska
Seasonal and decadal subsurface thaw dynamics of an Aufeis feature investigated through numerical simulations Seasonal and decadal subsurface thaw dynamics of an Aufeis feature investigated through numerical simulations
Arctic Rivers Project: Connecting Indigenous knowledge and western science to strengthen collective understanding of the changing Arctic Arctic Rivers Project: Connecting Indigenous knowledge and western science to strengthen collective understanding of the changing Arctic
*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government