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The dynamic controls on carbonate mineral saturation states and ocean acidification in a glacially dominated estuary

Citation: Reisdorph, S. C., & Mathis, J. T. (2014). The dynamic controls on carbonate mineral saturation states and ocean acidification in a glacially dominated estuary. Estuarine Coastal and Shelf Science, 144, 8-18. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecss.2014.03.018

Recently, a number of studies have shown that the intrusion of anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2) into the ocean has created an acidification effect leading to the reduction in carbonate mineral saturation states (Ω). However, the uptake of atmospheric CO2 is not the only climate-induced phenomenon that leads to a reduction of Ω in marine environments. Over the past ∼250 years, Glacier Bay, AK (GLBA) has experienced rapid deglaciation leading to an increase in the amount of freshwater entering the marine ecosystem. This excess freshwater discharge is low in total alkalinity and reduces the buffering capacity of surface waters and enhances the vulnerability of the estuary to further reductions in pH. The corresponding reduction in Ω may cause these waters to become corrosive to shell-building organisms. To better understand these processes, we collected monthly samples within GLBA that show the variability in Ω throughout the water column. Low Ω values were well correlated with the timing of maximum glacial discharge events and most prominent within the two regions where tidewater glacial discharge was highest. The saturation state with respect to aragonite reached a minimum of 0.40 at the surface during the summer of 2011 before rebounding to a maximum value of 3.26 in the spring of 2012. Aragonite was undersaturated at the surface throughout the entire bay during fall months (Sept. and Oct.). Here, we present results from a year-long study designed to constrain the effects of glacial freshwater discharge on the marine carbonate system and discern the primary controls on Ω in this pristine estuarine environment.

ADAPTING TO OCEAN ACIDIFICATION

The NOAA Ocean Acidification Program (OAP) works to prepare society to adapt to the consequences of ocean acidification and conserve marine ecosystems as acidification occurs. Learn more about the human connections and adaptation strategies from these efforts.

Adaptation approaches fostered by the OAP include:

FORECASTING

Using models and research to understand the sensitivity of organisms and ecosystems to ocean acidification to make predictions about the future, allowing communities and industries to prepare

MANAGEMENT

Using these models and predictions as tools to facilitate management strategies that will protect marine resources and communities from future changes

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Developing innovative tools to help monitor ocean acidification and mitigate changing ocean chemistry locally

REDUCING OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

On the Road

Drive fuel-efficient vehicles or choose public transportation. Choose your bike or walk! Don't sit idle for more than 30 seconds. Keep your tires properly inflated.

With your Food Choices

Eat local- this helps cut down on production and transport! Reduce your meat and dairy. Compost to avoid food waste ending up in the landfill

With your Food Choices

Make energy-efficient choices for your appliances and lighting. Heat and cool efficiently! Change your air filters and program your thermostat, seal and insulate your home, and support clean energy sources

By Reducing Coastal Acidification

Reduce your use of fertilizers, Improve sewage treatment and run off, and Protect and restore coastal habitats

TAKE ACTION WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

You've taken the first step to learn more about ocean acidification - why not spread this knowledge to your community?

Every community has their unique culture, economy and ecology and what’s at stake from ocean acidification may be different depending on where you live.  As a community member, you can take a larger role in educating the public about ocean acidification. Creating awareness is the first step to taking action.  As communities gain traction, neighboring regions that share marine resources can build larger coalitions to address ocean acidification.  Here are some ideas to get started:

  1. Work with informal educators, such as aquarium outreach programs and local non-profits, to teach the public about ocean acidification. Visit our Education & Outreach page to find the newest tools!
  2. Participate in habitat restoration efforts to restore habitats that help mitigate the effects of coastal acidification
  3. Facilitate conversations with local businesses that might be affected by ocean acidification, building a plan for the future.
  4. Partner with local community efforts to mitigate the driver behind ocean acidification  – excess CO2 – such as community supported agriculture, bike & car shares and other public transportation options.
  5. Contact your regional Coastal Acidification Network (CAN) to learn how OA is affecting your region and more ideas about how you can get involved in your community
       More for Taking Community Action