Short Wave
What The Heck Is A Rock Glacier?
Oct 11, 2024
Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent renowned for her insightful coverage of climate change, dives into the fascinating world of rock glaciers. She reveals that there are over 10,000 of these formations in the western U.S., often overlooked despite their significance. The discussion highlights their role in water supply and biodiversity, as well as the challenges researchers face in studying these hidden wonders. Nell also shares her hiking adventures to Utah’s rock glaciers, emphasizing their resilience amid climate change.
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Quick takeaways
- Rock glaciers, unlike traditional glaciers, offer a unique insulation that enables them to survive climate change longer and support biodiversity.
- In areas like Utah, rock glaciers are crucial water sources, helping to sustain ecosystems as snowpack levels decline due to rising temperatures.
Deep dives
Introduction to Rock Glaciers
Rock glaciers, unlike traditional snowy glaciers, are covered in debris, making them less visible and understudied. They are much more common, with over 10,000 present in the western U.S., and their unique composition provides natural insulation for the ice beneath. This insulation enables them to survive the effects of climate change longer than traditional glaciers, which are losing ice rapidly due to rising temperatures. As such, rock glaciers could play a crucial role in maintaining water supplies and supporting biodiversity in the region.
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