Why A River Turned Red

It’s one thing for people to talk about the Red River, but a river that actually looks red is something completely different. Earlier this month, there were reports that the water of the Goose River near Caledonia turned red, which isn’t a color one associates with a healthy river.  The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality took samples of that red water and test results are now in.  The DEQ says several factors caused the discoloration, including high temperatures, low water flow, groundwater entering the river and a buildup of organic matter.  Those conditions combined to deplete oxygen levels in the river, making it turn red.  There were no signs that a wastewater facility between Mayville and the Red River caused the discoloration.  The DEQ also says you shouldn’t drink water from the affected area and should avoid the area for recreational use.