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Record-setting trash found in Yellowstone National Park hot springs
SFGATE • • world
Key Points:
- Yellowstone National Park’s geology team collected a record-breaking 20,100 pieces of trash from the park’s hot springs this year, including 280 hats and 5,600 rocks and sticks.
- Trash in hot springs can disrupt their natural function, alter water flow, and contaminate the environment, prompting the team to carefully remove all debris using specialized tools.
- Unusual items found include retainers, fake nails, AirPods, inhalers, and coins from various currencies, with coins particularly harmful to bacterial and algal formations in the springs.
- Hundreds of hats are blown into hot springs annually due to windy conditions, and wearable hats are cleaned and donated by the park staff.
- Children’s toys such as mini race cars, rubber ducks, and glittery slime are also frequently found abandoned in and around the hot springs.
