1. What are the main factors that can affect water quality in Alaska?

1. Pollution: Pollution from human activities can contaminate rivers, lakes and other water bodies in Alaska, affecting their quality. Sources of pollution can include industrial and agricultural activities, sewage discharge, oil spills, and littering.

2. Acidification: Acid rain, caused by air pollution from human activities, can lower the pH levels of water bodies and make them more acidic. This can harm aquatic organisms and disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems.

3. Climate Change: Rising temperatures due to climate change can affect water quality in Alaska in several ways. It can increase the rate at which pollutants are released from sediments into the water, change the distribution of aquatic plant and animal species, and cause harmful algal blooms.

4. Melting Glaciers: The rapid melting of glaciers in Alaska can alter the chemical composition of river water by increasing sediment load and changing its temperature. This can have negative impacts on fish populations and other aquatic life.

5. Runoff: As snow melts or rain falls on land surfaces, it carries pollutants from roads, urban areas, mines and agricultural lands into nearby water bodies through runoff. This can lead to contamination of lakes and streams with fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals.

6. Mining Activities: Mining operations in Alaska require large amounts of water for processing ore materials. Chemicals used for extraction processes may leak into surrounding soil or groundwater sources and contaminate nearby rivers or lakes.

7. Sewage Disposal: Improperly treated or untreated sewage disposal is a major source of pollution in Alaska’s watersheds. It can introduce harmful bacteria, viruses, nutrients and chemicals that pose health risks to humans as well as aquatic life.

8.Adverse Weather events: Abnormal weather patterns such as heavy rains or snowmelt events can wash pollutants – including nutrients like phosphorus – from land into local water bodies causing eutrophication (i.e., an excess growth of algae).

9. Invasive Species: Non-native species introduced to Alaska’s water bodies can alter the chemical balance and physical structure of ecosystems, affecting water quality. Invasive species such as zebra mussels can also clog pipes and other infrastructure, impacting water quality and supply.

10. Human Activities: Recreational activities like boating, swimming, fishing also impact water quality in Alaska. Oil spills from boats or fuel leaks from sport fishing equipment are some examples of human activities that can harm aquatic life and result in degraded water quality.

2. How often is water quality testing conducted in Alaska?

The frequency of water quality testing in Alaska can vary depending on the source of the water and its intended use. Some common examples include:

– Public drinking water: Water systems in Alaska are required to test for a variety of contaminants at specific frequencies, typically ranging from weekly to annually, depending on the type of contaminant. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has detailed guidelines for public water system monitoring and reporting.
– Recreational waters (lakes, rivers, etc.): DEC recommends that samples be taken monthly during the peak summer recreational season, but actual sampling frequency is determined by the agency responsible for managing each body of water.
– Shellfish growing areas: The National Shellfish Sanitation Program recommends sampling every 14 days during the growing season.
– Groundwater monitoring: To monitor groundwater quality near landfills or industrial sites, DEC requires quarterly sampling for certain contaminants.
– Private well testing: While there is no statewide requirement for private well testing, DEC recommends that private well owners have their water tested annually for bacteria and nitrates.

Overall, water quality may be monitored more frequently in heavily populated areas or areas with known pollution issues.

Source: Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

3. What are the most common contaminants found in Alaska’s water sources?

The most common contaminants found in Alaska’s water sources include:

1. Arsenic: This naturally occurring element can be found in high concentrations in certain areas of Alaska. Exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause health issues such as skin and lung problems, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

2. Lead: Lead can enter the water supply through aging infrastructure, such as old pipes and plumbing fixtures. Exposure to lead can result in developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other serious health effects.

3. Nitrates: These chemical compounds are commonly found in fertilizers and pesticides used in agriculture. Nitrates can seep into groundwater and contaminate drinking water sources, posing a health risk especially for infants.

4. Coliform bacteria: These bacteria are used as indicators of fecal contamination in water sources. E.coli is a type of coliform bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness if ingested.

5. Petroleum-related contaminants: Alaska is known for its oil production, which has led to concerns about petroleum-related contaminants such as benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylene (BTEX). These chemicals can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through skin exposure.

6. Radon: Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can seep into groundwater and contaminate drinking water sources.

7. Chlorine byproducts: Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in drinking water treatment plants, but it can react with organic matter to form byproducts such as trihalomethanes (THMs). These byproducts have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues.

8. Pesticides: The use of pesticides in agriculture and other industries can result in contamination of surface water and groundwater sources.

9. Mercury: This heavy metal is released into the environment through various industrial processes, such as mining and coal burning. It can accumulate in fish and other aquatic organisms, making them unsafe for human consumption.

10. Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs): PPCPs are chemicals found in medications, cosmetics, and other personal care products that can enter the water supply through sewage treatment plants or septic systems. These chemicals have been linked to potential health risks for humans and aquatic life.

4. How does Alaska determine its maximum contaminant levels for drinking water?

Alaska determines its maximum contaminant levels for drinking water through a comprehensive assessment of potential health risks associated with various contaminants. This process involves evaluating scientific studies, conducting risk assessments, and considering public input.

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations for drinking water quality in the state. They use the following steps to determine maximum contaminant levels:

1. Identifying Contaminants: The DEC identifies contaminants that may be present in drinking water sources, including both regulated and unregulated compounds.

2. Analyzing Health Risks: The DEC conducts risk assessments to determine the potential adverse health effects of each identified contaminant.

3. Establishing Goals: Based on the results of the risk assessments, the DEC establishes goals for each contaminant that are protective of human health.

4. Setting Regulatory Limits: Using the established goals, the DEC sets Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for regulated contaminants that must not be exceeded in drinking water supplies.

5. Considering Site-Specific Factors: In some cases, site-specific factors such as source water characteristics or treatment capabilities may require different MCLs than those set by federal regulations.

6. Updating Regulations: The DEC regularly reviews and updates its regulations to ensure they reflect current science and protect public health.

By following this process, Alaska is able to establish MCLs that are both scientifically sound and protective of public health for drinking water sources throughout the state.

5. What steps does Alaska take to ensure compliance with federal water quality regulations?

As Alaska is a state, it enforces federal water quality regulations through strategies implemented by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). These strategies include:

1. Monitoring and Assessment: The EPA, in collaboration with DEC, conducts regular monitoring of surface water quality throughout the state to determine compliance with various federal water quality standards.

2. Permitting: All facilities that discharge pollutants into surface water or groundwater sources must obtain permits from the DEC. These permits set limits on the amount and type of pollutants that can be released into water bodies.

3. Inspections and Enforcement: The DEC performs routine inspections of facilities to ensure they are complying with their permits and other relevant regulations. Violations are addressed through enforcement actions such as fines, penalties, and corrective measures.

4. Best Management Practices (BMPs): The DEC works closely with industries, communities, and individuals to identify best management practices for preventing pollution and protecting water quality. These BMPs may be incorporated into permit requirements or voluntary programs.

5. Education and Outreach: The DEC provides education and outreach programs to raise public awareness about water quality issues and how individuals can take action to protect it.

6. Water Quality Standards: The EPA sets national standards for permissible levels of pollutants in surface waters under the Clean Water Act, while the DEC establishes additional state-specific standards where necessary.

7. Coordination with Federal Agencies: Alaska’s DEC collaborates with other federal agencies such as the U.S Geological Survey (USGS) to share data on surface water quality.

8. Performance Reporting: Both the EPA and DEC collect data on its enforcement activities, which are published online for public access.

Overall, Alaska takes a proactive approach to ensuring compliance with federal water quality regulations through a combination of monitoring, enforcement, education, standard setting, and collaboration with other agencies.

6. Are there any specific industries or activities that contribute to water pollution in Alaska?

Some specific industries or activities that contribute to water pollution in Alaska include:

1. Oil and gas development: The oil and gas industry is a significant contributor to water pollution in Alaska, especially in the North Slope region. Spills, leaks, and discharges from drilling operations, pipelines, and storage facilities can contaminate both surface and groundwater.

2. Mining: Mining activities such as open-pit mining and the use of chemicals for ore processing can release toxic substances into waterways. This can lead to contamination of rivers, lakes, and groundwater sources.

3. Industrial activities: Chemicals used in industrial processes can be released into water sources through spills or improper disposal, leading to pollution.

4. Agriculture: The use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture can wash off into nearby streams and rivers during heavy rains, contaminating water sources.

5. Wastewater treatment plants: Inadequately treated wastewater from municipal treatment plants can contain pollutants such as nutrients, pathogens, and chemical compounds which can harm aquatic life and human health.

6. Cruise ships: Cruise ships that visit Alaskan waters generate large volumes of sewage waste that contains pollutants like fecal coliform bacteria, metals, oil, grease, pharmaceuticals, cleaning agents, and other chemicals.

7. Marine debris: Coastal development and increased maritime traffic have resulted in a significant buildup of marine debris along Alaska’s coastlines over the years. These debris items are often made up of plastics or other materials that do not break down easily but instead persist in the environment.

8. Natural disasters: Severe storms or floods can cause runoff of pollutants such as sediments from construction sites or agricultural fields into bodies of water.

9. Recreational activities: Recreational boating activities can contribute to water pollution through fuel spills or dumping waste into the water.

10. Climate change impacts: Climate change has led to changes in precipitation patterns in Alaska which may result in an increase in stormwater runoff carrying pollutants into water bodies. The melting of permafrost and retreating glaciers also release pollutants into water sources.

7. In what areas of Alaska are water quality issues most prevalent?

Water quality issues in Alaska are most prevalent in the following areas:

1. Southeast Alaska: Southeast Alaska is home to many small communities and villages that rely on local rivers and streams for drinking water and subsistence fishing. Mining activities, logging, and other industrial developments can impact these waterways and degrade the water quality.

2. Arctic Alaska: The Arctic contains some of the last remaining pristine wilderness areas in the world, but they are increasingly impacted by pollution from oil and gas development, mining, shipping, and tourism.

3. Western Alaska: Some communities in western Alaska rely on surface water sources such as rivers and lakes for their drinking water. These sources can be contaminated by nearby mining activities or septic systems.

4. Urban areas: Water quality issues are also a concern in urban areas of Alaska such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Urban stormwater runoff can pick up pollutants and carry them into nearby rivers and lakes.

5. Coastal regions: Coastal waters along the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea are affected by pollution from international shipping traffic, offshore oil exploration, and commercial fishing activities.

6. Remote villages: Many remote villages in rural parts of Alaska have limited access to clean drinking water due to poor infrastructure or contamination from old landfills or dumpsites.

7. Groundwater contamination: Groundwater contamination is a concern in many parts of Alaska due to leaking underground storage tanks, landfills, or industrial waste disposal practices.

8. Does Alaska have any programs or initiatives aimed at improving overall water quality?

Yes, Alaska has several programs and initiatives aimed at improving overall water quality. These include:

1. Clean Water Act: The Clean Water Act is a federal law that sets standards for regulating and controlling the discharge of pollutants into US waters, including those in Alaska.

2. Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (APDES): APDES is a state permit program under the Clean Water Act that regulates the discharge of pollutants from point sources into state waters.

3. Alaska’s Tribal Environmental Program: This program works with Alaska Native Tribes to improve water quality on tribal lands through training, technical assistance, and funding opportunities.

4. Coastal Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program: This program addresses nonpoint source pollution from land-based activities along Alaska’s coastlines, such as runoff from agriculture, urban areas, and forestry.

5. Surface Water Quality Standards: The State of Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) has established surface water quality standards to protect human health and aquatic life in lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water across the state.

6. Water Quality Monitoring Program: ADEC also conducts regular water quality monitoring to assess the health of Alaska’s waterways and identify any potential threats or issues.

7. Environmental Compliance Assistance Program: This program offers resources and support to help businesses, municipalities, and other organizations comply with environmental regulations related to water quality.

8. Nutrient Management Program: The ADEC’s Nutrient Management Program addresses excess nutrients in aquatic systems which can lead to harmful algal blooms and other negative effects on water quality.

Overall, these programs aim to protect public health and maintain healthy ecosystems by addressing sources of pollution and promoting responsible actions to improve water quality in Alaska.

9. How does climate change impact water quality in Alaska?

Climate change can have significant impacts on water quality in Alaska. Rising temperatures can lead to changes in the timing and amount of precipitation, which can affect the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water bodies.

Some specific ways that climate change can impact water quality in Alaska include:

1. Changes in melting patterns: In Alaska, much of the drinking water comes from glaciers and snowfields that melt during the summer months. As temperatures rise, these glaciers may melt earlier and at a faster rate, resulting in less available drinking water during peak times.

2. Soil erosion: Warmer temperatures and increased precipitation can cause soil erosion, leading to higher levels of sedimentation in rivers and streams. This can affect the clarity of the water and damage aquatic habitats.

3. Algal blooms: Warmer temperatures can also promote algal growth in lakes and rivers. Large blooms of harmful algae can result in low oxygen levels, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic organisms to survive.

4. Changes in ocean chemistry: Higher atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are causing ocean acidification, which affects not only marine life but also the quality of seafood consumed by people living along the coast.

5. Decreased water quality due to forest fires: Climate change has contributed to an increase in forest fires in Alaska. These fires can contaminate drinking water sources with ash, sediment, and other pollutants.

6. Impacts on subsistence hunting and fishing: Many Alaskan communities rely on subsistence hunting and fishing as their primary source of food. Climate change can affect this way of life by altering wildlife migration patterns or contaminating traditional food sources with harmful algal blooms or other toxins.

Overall, climate change is altering the availability and quality of freshwater resources for both humans and wildlife in Alaska. This highlights the need for adaptation strategies to ensure sustainable management of these critical resources amid changing climate conditions.

10. What regulations does Alaska have in place for wastewater treatment and discharge?

Alaska has regulations in place for wastewater treatment and discharge under the Alaska Water Quality Standards (WQS) and the Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (APDES) program.

The WQS sets standards for water quality, including limits on pollutants that can be discharged into surface waters. These standards are designed to protect human health and the environment.

Under the APDES program, facilities must obtain a permit before discharging any pollutants into surface water or groundwater. The permit will contain limits on the types and amounts of pollutants that can be discharged, as well as monitoring and reporting requirements.

In addition, Alaska has regulations for onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems, which are overseen by local government agencies. These regulations set requirements for system design, installation, operation, maintenance, and inspection to ensure proper treatment of wastewater before it is released into the environment.

11. Are there any ongoing efforts to address nutrient pollution in rivers and lakes within Alaska?

Yes, there are ongoing efforts to address nutrient pollution in rivers and lakes in Alaska. The main focus is on reducing inputs of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from human sources, including sewage treatment plants, agricultural runoff, and urban stormwater. These efforts include implementing best management practices for agriculture and urban development, upgrading sewage treatment plants to remove more nutrients, and implementing new regulations for wastewater discharge.

In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) works with state agencies to establish water quality standards that limit nutrient levels in rivers and lakes. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation also conducts monitoring and assessment programs to identify impaired water bodies and develop plans to improve their water quality.

Some specific efforts to address nutrient pollution in Alaska include:
– The Municipality of Anchorage’s Anchorage Chesnut Creek Nutrient Reduction Project, which aims to reduce nitrogen loading into local streams through enhanced streamside vegetation.
– The Matanuska-Susitna Borough’s Eklutna Tailrace Restoration Project, which involves restoring a section of the Eklutna River to improve habitat for fish and other aquatic life while decreasing nutrient loading.
– The Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council’s “Keep It Cold” climate change adaptation project, which includes recommendations for reducing nutrient inputs along the Yukon River watershed.
– The Huna Totem Corporation’s Icefield Streams Assessment Project, which monitors the effects of glacial retreat on nutrient dynamics in streams near Juneau.
– Cooperative research projects between scientists at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and federal government agencies (such as the National Park Service) studying nutrient cycling in lakes impacted by thawing permafrost.

In addition to these local efforts, there are also larger regional initiatives aimed at addressing nutrient pollution across multiple states. For example:
– The Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund supports habitat restoration projects throughout coastal areas in Alaska aimed at improving salmon populations through improved water quality.
– The National Estuary Program, funded by the EPA and managed by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, works to protect and restore water quality in important estuaries throughout Alaska (such as the Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve).
– The Alaska Clean Water Actions initiative, a partnership between state agencies and local communities, aims to reduce nutrient pollution from non-point sources through education and technical assistance.

12. Do local communities have a role in maintaining and monitoring water quality standards in Alaska?

Yes, local communities play an important role in maintaining and monitoring water quality standards in Alaska. They can contribute to the development of water quality standards through public input processes and by participating in local water quality monitoring programs. Local communities can also help to enforce water quality regulations by reporting any violations or concerns to state or federal agencies. Additionally, community organizations and volunteer groups can assist with monitoring efforts and participate in clean-up initiatives to help protect their local water sources. It is important for local communities to be involved in these efforts as they have a vested interest in the health and sustainability of their water resources.

13. Is bottled water regulated differently than tap water in terms of quality standards in Alaska?

Yes, bottled water is regulated differently than tap water in terms of quality standards in Alaska. While both are subject to regulation by federal and state laws, bottled water is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, while tap water is regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Safe Drinking Water Act. This means that there are separate set of standards and regulations for each type of water.

14. What type of monitoring methods are used to assess the health of rivers, lakes, and streams in Alaska?

There are several monitoring methods used to assess the health of rivers, lakes, and streams in Alaska. These include:

1. Water quality testing: This involves collecting water samples and analyzing them for various physical, chemical, and biological parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, nutrients, bacteria levels, and presence of pollutants.

2. Biological monitoring: This method uses aquatic organisms (macroinvertebrates and fish) as indicators of water quality. As some species are sensitive to pollution or changes in water quality, their presence or absence can provide valuable information about the health of a waterbody.

3. Flow monitoring: Measurement of flow rates in rivers and streams is important for understanding how they change over time. Changes in flow can affect aquatic habitats and indicate potential issues such as drought or excessive runoff.

4. Remote sensing: This method uses satellite imagery to monitor changes in land cover around rivers and lakes. It can help identify sources of pollution or erosion that may be impacting water quality.

5. Citizen science programs: Community members can collect data on water quality and stream health through citizen science programs. This engages stakeholders in monitoring efforts and provides additional data points for analysis.

6. Hydrological monitoring: Tracking water levels and rainfall patterns can provide information on changes in flow rates and potential impacts on aquatic habitats.

7. Use of biological monitors: Organisms that are particularly sensitive to environmental changes can be used as bioindicators to assess the health of rivers, lakes, and streams.

8. Sediment sampling: Sediment samples can provide information about the pollutants present in a waterbody due to land-use practices or erosion.

9. Public reporting systems: Many states have public reporting systems where individuals can report observations or concerns about the health of their local waterways.

10.Special studies: In some cases, specialized studies may be undertaken to examine specific issues such as impacts from mining activities or contamination due to oil spills.

15. How frequently is public reporting on drinking water quality data done by utilities in Alaska?

Public reporting on drinking water quality data is required to be done on an annual basis by utilities in Alaska.

16. Are there any known health risks associated with swimming or recreating in bodies of water within Alaska?

There are a few potential health risks associated with swimming or recreating in bodies of water within Alaska, including:

1. Hypothermia: Cold water temperatures can quickly lead to hypothermia, which is a serious condition that occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below normal. This can happen even in summer months when the water may seem warm but is still cold enough to cause rapid heat loss.

2. Drowning: Drowning is a risk in any body of water, and in Alaska’s remote areas, access to emergency medical care may be limited.

3. Contamination: Bodies of water can become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, algae, or other pollutants from various sources such as sewage overflow or runoff from fertilized fields.

4. Algal blooms: Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when certain types of algae grow rapidly and produce toxins that can harm humans and animals. These blooms can be triggered by warm temperatures and nutrient-rich waters.

5. Parasites and diseases: Some bodies of water in Alaska may harbor parasites or bacteria that can cause illness in people who come into contact with them.

It is important to check local advisories for updates on potential hazards before swimming or recreating in any body of water in Alaska, and always take necessary precautions to ensure your safety while enjoying these beautiful natural resources.

17. What penalties exist for companies or individuals who violate water quality regulations in Alaska?

Penalties for violating water quality regulations in Alaska can include fines, criminal charges, and orders to cease and desist activities that are causing the violation. The penalties may vary depending on the severity of the violation, and may be imposed by either state or federal authorities.

For violations of the Alaska Clean Water Act (ACWA), which regulates pollution of state waters, individuals or companies can be fined up to $5,000 per day for each violation. Repeat offenders may face higher fines and potential criminal charges.

Under the federal Clean Water Act (CWA), which regulates pollution of navigable waters in the United States, individuals or companies can be fined up to $25,000 per day for each violation. In addition, criminal penalties for knowing violations can include fines up to $50,000 per day and imprisonment.

In some cases, violators may also be required to pay for restoration or remediation efforts to address the environmental damage caused by their actions.

Overall, the severity of penalties for water quality violations in Alaska serves as a deterrent for non-compliance with water quality regulations and encourages responsible stewardship of the state’s resources.

18. Is there a state agency dedicated solely to managing and protecting the quality of groundwater in Alaska?

No, there is no state agency solely dedicated to managing and protecting the quality of groundwater in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) has some oversight over certain aspects of groundwater quality, such as issuing permits for underground injection wells and remediation of contaminated sites. However, ADEC’s main focus is on surface water quality and air quality. There are also some municipal agencies that have responsibilities for managing and protecting local groundwater resources.

19 . How has natural resource extraction, such as coal mining or fracking, impacted water quality in certain areas of Alaska?

Natural resource extraction, such as coal mining or fracking, can have significant impacts on water quality in certain areas of Alaska.

Coal mining involves the removal of vast quantities of earth and rock in order to access coal seams. This process often results in the contamination of surface water and groundwater with pollutants such as heavy metals and acid mine drainage. In Alaska, many coal mines are located near rivers and streams that eventually flow into the ocean, which can lead to harmful effects on local fish and other aquatic life. Additionally, coal ash, a byproduct of coal-fired power plants which is often stored in open pits or ponds, can also contaminate nearby groundwater sources.

Fracking, or hydraulic fracturing, is the process of injecting large amounts of water, chemicals and sand deep underground to release natural gas and oil from rock formations. This process has raised concerns about potential impacts on water quality due to leakage of fracking fluids or wastewater into underground aquifers and surface water sources. In Alaska, there have been instances of fracking wastewater spills contaminating local surface waters and drinking water sources.

In addition to these direct impacts on water quality from natural resource extraction activities themselves, there are also concerns about the overall degradation of water resources in areas with heavy resource extraction industries. For example, the excessive use of freshwater for hydraulic fracturing can deplete local water sources, resulting in decreased flow rates and potentially impacting wildlife habitats.

Moreover, climate change is affecting Alaska’s natural resources as well as its people’s traditional ways of living. The rapid melting of glaciers is altering streamflows and changing riverine ecosystems that support salmon populations vital to tribal subsistence culture. Changes in Arctic sea ice patterns are linked with changes in plankton growth rate which feeds fish population supporting food webs throughout all levels from whales down to seabirds.

To address these concerns about natural resource extraction’s impact on water quality in Alaska, some measures have been put in place. These include stricter regulations and monitoring of water quality at mining sites, implementing best management practices for storing and handling coal ash, and increasing oversight and public disclosure of fracking operations.

Overall, the extraction of natural resources in areas like Alaska can have significant effects on water quality. It is important for government agencies, industry leaders, and local communities to work together to mitigate these impacts and ensure sustainable use of water resources for both present and future generations.

20 . Does clean drinking wa