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White bottomed marsh #873167

Asked June 14, 2024, 7:06 PM EDT

Is there any known knowledge of white-bottomed marshes in Alaska and do they have any relation to extinct/historical tar pits? Found a curious marsh and bog that is blue white marsh. Lived here her entire life never seen anything like that and it's miles off (nearest town, Big Lake, about 26 miles away). Can t get to it by road. The marsh has very clear water.

Matanuska-Susitna County Alaska

Expert Response

Hi Kaia,

Do you have any pictures? There are lots of naturally occurring petroleum deposits across the state, but as oil is lighter than water they are pretty easy to identify as they have an oily sheen to them. Sounds like either an algae occurring, or one of the other types of mineral springs found in the state. Sulfur springs are the most common, and usually have an orange or green tinge to them. I'm sorry I can't be too specific as to what it was, but I'm pretty sure it's not a tar pit for the reason above. 

Jozef Slowik Replied June 18, 2024, 8:40 PM EDT
I am closing this question, if you have pictures to submit we can reopen it.
Thanks
Katrina
Katrina Paul Replied July 09, 2024, 9:16 PM EDT

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