416 Fire turning Animas River brown
Meg Hilling
July 19, 2018 08:47 PM
DURANGO, CO. - Durango just can't catch a break. While the 416 fire is no longer a threat to residents, it is proving to be quite a threat to the fish in the Animas River.
The runoff of mud and debris from the 416 Fire has turned the river water dark brown.
"This is pretty predictable, it happens behind most wildland fires," Aquatic Biologist, Jim White said.
While rafters might notice only the color change, the fish are noticing a lot more. There's currently a lack of oxygen and nutrients in the water.
Wildlife experts says the brown water can clog fish's gills.
"We've seen a pretty significant die-off of our fish,” White said.
Wildlife experts say it could take weeks before the river returns to normal.
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Updated: July 19, 2018 08:47 PM
Created: July 19, 2018 07:44 PM
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