Global warming may be contributing to melting methane off the OR and WA coasts


Methane plumes are popping up over vast expanses of ocean floors off WA and OR.
Univ. of Washington graphic
A combination of things seem to be making a toxic brew off the coasts of Washington and Oregon, adding to the acidification of the near shore waters and taking a bigger and bigger toll on the Pacific Northwest’s shellfish harvest.
Ocean scientists say as the ocean warms, ancient methane trapped in ice down over 1,500 feet is being released and bubbling up to the surface in wide ranging plumes making it harder and harder for shellfish to grow their shells.
Here’s more on the story from The Oregonian. Click here.