New research is showing the devastating impacts of California’s recent wildfire seasons on freshwater habitats. A study from UC Davis examined three of the state’s biggest wildfire seasons – 2018, 2020 and 2021 – and how wildfire smoke affected lake habitats across California. Data showed water temperatures tended to be lower during those years because smoke particles in the air blocked sunlight from reaching the water. The smoke also affected the clarity of each lake. Researchers add the temperature changes can be linked to changes in algal production and oxygen content in the water. They looked at Lake Tahoe, Emerald Lake, Clear Lake, Castle Lake as well as a group of smaller lakes in the Sequoia National Forest.
California Wildfires Affected Freshwater Lakes Over the Years
