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ARCHES NATIONAL PARK — After discovering coins in an ephemeral pool, park officials are reminding hikers that treating desert potholes like a "wishing well" can kill living organisms in the water and disrupt the ecosystem.
The coins were discovered by rangers hiking through Arches National Park on Sept. 22, according to park officials. Officials believe the coins were dropped into the pool by hikers.
"Desert potholes are not wishing wells," officials said. "Dropping coins in a desert pothole is the same as leaving trash or graffiti on the trail. Please, when hiking, pack out everything you pack in. Pick up trash — even if it's not yours."
In addition to adding unsightly littering to the environment, dropping metal coins in ephemeral pools can also alter the chemistry of the pools and affect the life forms that live in them, officials said.
The pools provide a habitat for many small organisms and microorganisms that have unique adaptations that allow them to survive in the fragile environment. The organisms that live within potholes are very sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry, temperature changes and sediment input, according to the National Park Service website. Swimming, bathing, drinking or walking through pothole water can drastically change the salinity or pH balance of the water.
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Many Utahns are flocking to the outdoors for summer hiking and exploring, but some are leaving behind unwanted and confusing cairns and officials are asking them to stop.While the ecosystems of ephemeral pools are quite small, they can act as an indicator for the health of the larger ecosystems, the National Park Service said. Because the pools don't have the ability to counteract acids, acid rain caused by industrial pollution can be lethal. As a result, officials monitor pothole levels and ecosystem health at various locations to track significant changes in the environment.
"This is why we ask hikers to avoid drinking, bathing or swimming in potholes or walking through dry ones," park officials said. "With your help, we can ensure the health and beauty of Arches National Park into the future."
