Colonial Glacier Explained

Colonial Glacier
Type:Alpine glacier
Location:Whatcom County, Washington, U.S.
Map:USA Washington
Label Position:right
Map Size:225
Coordinates:48.6619°N -121.1389°W
Coordinates Ref:[1]
Length:0.6miles
Terminus:Proglacial lake
Status:Retreating

Colonial Glacier is in North Cascades National Park in the U.S. state of Washington and is immediately northwest of Neve Peak. Colonial Glacier flows generally north, descending from 6800feetto6000feetft (toft).[2] Between 1950 and 2006, Colonial Glacier is estimated to have retreated more than 300m (1,000feet) and a newly formed proglacial lake filled the recently vacated former terminal moraine. The reduction in size of the glaciers of the North Cascades will reduce summertime meltwater runoff which is used to maintain a steady supply of electricity from hydroelectric power plants.[3]

See also

Notes and References

  1. 1517968. Colonial Glacier. March 17, 2013.
  2. TopoQwest (United States Geological Survey Maps). Diablo Dam, WA. March 17, 2013.
  3. Web site: Pelto. Mauri. Colonial Glacier Retreat and Hydropower. From a Glaciers Perspective. Word Press. March 17, 2013. February 1, 2010.