Tippets: Oregon Dam Removal, Mining Wastewater Spills Into Animas River, Pollution Spurs Evolution

August 12, 2015 By: Erin Block

  • Two of the most problematic dams for fish in Oregon rivers are slated for removal. Read more about the demolition of the Wimer and Fielder Dams, via Oregon Public Broadcasting.
  • Approximately three-million gallons of wastewater has accidentally been released from the Gold King Mine near Silverton, Colorado, into the Animas River. Jonathan Thompson writes about the contamination and history of mining issues in the area, via High Country News.
  • Hatcheries were originally meant to help conserve and protect fish species. However, it’s now questioned whether they are doing more harm than good. Read more about the flip side of hatcheries, via Alastair Bland at Comstock’s Magazine.
  • New research shows that human activities—particularly pollution in the environment—can spur rapid evolution and adaptability in complex life-forms, including trout. However, “the metal-tolerating trout may not be well suited to future change as they lack the broader genetic repertoire needed to cope with new and unexpected challenges,” says research lead Jamie Stevens. Via Scientific American.