There are problems in the tundra – alpine tundra that is. Officials from Rocky Mountain National Park are seeing an increase in nitrogen-rick ammonium, which is gradually changing the landscape of the park along with 15 other national parks. Grasses are beginning to usurp areas of the tundra, removing many of the wildflowers that draw tourists to the park each year.
Most of these parks are located in Western States. They include Yellowstone and Canyonlands, which draw millions each year. What’s worrying to many scientists is that the ammonium could start changing ecosystems at all these parks. And, this would affect everything, including wildlife.
While ammonium occurs naturally, it mainly comes from vehicle emissions, fertilizer and farm operations. Ammonium is a mixture of hydrogen, nitrogen and water. It has been known to change the chemistry of soil and water in large doses.
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