The Problem.
As humans we do things that hurt the environment on a daily basis, with casual actions as simple as throwing away trash, to driving a car. We seem to not realize that these habits can cause a seemlingly endless chain of reactions. The biggest cause for the damage to the ecosystems of Acadia National Park are factories that gush out pollution around the clock. These large industrial areas inject huge amounts of air pollution in the form of Nitrogen and Sulfur compounds, as well as other waste, all of which ultimately is carried into the park by natural factors such as wind and rivers.
The Result.
This pollution causes the annual average pH of precipitation in the area to range from 4.4 to 4.9, levels which are considered to be 10 times more acidic than unpolluted rain. The consequences of this pollution is already present, seen by the fact that it has caused the population of Red Spruce trees at sites in the park that receive both acid fog and acid rain, which slowly kills the trees, destroying the habitat and food source for many organisms. These are not the only problems caused by humans. The 3 million annual visitors driving into the park add a significant amount of CO2 emissions directly from their vehicles, and they carelessly trample small plants, some of which are endangered, while hiking.
The Future.
It is predicted as climate change is occurring, most likely through the mentioned greenhouse gases which in theory are causing global warming, the poles will melt, the entire park will simply be submerged by the higher sea level due to its location, and freshwater ecosystems and its inhabitants would be annihilated by the saltwater. As for example the Peregrine Falcon mainly feeds on small land animals, it could face another extinction event due to the flooding of the landscape not allowing living space or any diet to consume. The list of consequences go on and on, as we will ultimately see a . If you want to help keep the wildlife, beauty and opportunities of appreciating nature through camping in Acadia National Park, please try to make pollution less of a factor by recycling your trash and not leaving your car on while waiting for someone or something.