Climate Change Threatens Glaciers and Some Wildlife Species at Glacier National Park

Tools

KFBB Photo/Andrew Newcomer

By Andy Newcomer

Story Published: May 13, 2008 at 7:11 PM MDT

Story Updated: May 14, 2008 at 11:19 AM MDT

As Glacier National Park prepares for the summer season, officials say the park faces environmental challenges ahead. They say climate change threatens the park’s remaining glaciers and some of its wildlife inhabitants.

The park enjoyed an above average snowfall this year, but officials say it was just a momentary lapse in a larger warming trend.

“I think a lot of visitors will come to the park this summer and say, ‘Wow, there is lots of snow. Climate change must not be happening.’ But you have got to look long term,” said Supervisory Interpreter Matt Graves.

Graves says research has shown the temperature in northwestern Montana has increased by 2-3 degrees in the last 20 years, which is threatening the few remaining glaciers in the park.

“Researchers estimate by the year 2020 that all the glaciers will disappear from the landscape,” he said. “That is directly related to the climate change we are seeing now.”

Wildlife biologists say the warmer temperatures could change the park’s wildlife makeup.

“Animals that prefer a warmer climate may be the winners in a climate change scenario,” said Carnivore Ecologist John Waller. “We can probably guess that those animals that require really cold temperatures and live above tree line, like wolverines and mountain goats, may not do so well in a warmer environment.”

Waller says more research is required though to determine exactly how warmer temperatures will affect the park.

Missoula

Icon
Current Temp 49.0 °F
Fair
Wind : Calm
Pressure : 1024.7 mb
Humidity : 71 %
More Weather

Butte

Icon
Current Temp 40.0 °F
Fair
Wind : Southeast at 6.9 MPH (6 KT)
Pressure : 1025.7 mb
Humidity : 77 %
More Weather

On Demand

Stock Quotes
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Poll

Do you think Montana's DUI laws need to be tougher?

  • Yes
  • No

AP Video