Once a stunningly clear blue, the Morning Glory Pool in Yellowstone National Park has drastically changed due to human interference. For decades, tourists threw coins and trash into the thermal pool, altering its appearance and disrupting its natural balance. Today, the pool serves as a reminder of the lasting impact people can have on nature.
By August Roberts
A Natural Wonder, Lost to Pollution
Morning Glory Pool was once one of Yellowstone’s most beautiful geothermal features, renowned for its deep blue hue. Its name came from the striking resemblance to the morning glory flower. However, as the pool became a popular tourist destination, visitors began treating it like a wishing well, tossing in coins and other debris. Over time, this practice clouded the water, turning the once-pristine pool into a colorful yet polluted attraction.
Early Visitors and Their Impact
In the park’s early days, Morning Glory Pool drew large crowds due to its unique beauty. Historical records reveal that visitors were captivated by the pool’s vivid blue color. Yet, many tourists believed throwing objects into the pool would grant wishes or trigger geyser activity. At the time, the understanding of Yellowstone’s geothermal features was limited, and the long-term consequences of these actions were not yet recognized.
Attempts to Clean and Restore
In the 1990s, the National Park Service made efforts to restore Morning Glory Pool through organized clean-up operations. Former ranger Jeff Henry recalled the difficult task of removing hundreds of items, including coins, car parts, and even hats, from the pool. Although these efforts were significant, the damage caused by years of pollution could not be entirely reversed. Today, such large-scale cleanings are rare, as the park has shifted its focus to preserving what remains.
A Testament to Human Influence
Morning Glory Pool no longer boasts the clear blue waters that once defined it. The accumulation of trash has lowered the pool’s temperature, allowing bacteria to thrive and changing its color to shades of green and yellow. Experts like Mike Poland explain that these changes are permanent, but visitor behavior has improved significantly, with far fewer objects being thrown into the pool today.
Despite the irreversible changes, Morning Glory Pool remains a symbol of nature’s resilience. As Yellowstone continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder of the need for responsible stewardship.
Based on information from www.cowboystatedaily.com and own research.