How a Changing Climate Is Impacting US River Systems
Provided by: The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF)|Published on: May 20, 2021|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Articles/Websites
Subjects: Chemistry, Biology, Geography
Authors: The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), Nick Bradford
Location: North America > United States
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This short article discusses various climate change impacts on river systems in the United States and the resulting issues related to drinking water, pollution, energy production, and recreation.
- Students will learn how changes in river levels, flooding, precipitation, snowpack, and seasonal variability impact US water sources.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This article thoroughly explains the impacts of climate change on water quality and the threats that U.S. rivers face.
- A map shows how climate change impacts the water supply and quality in different regions of the US.
Prerequisites
- Although this resource focuses on the US, climate change is also impacting river systems around the world.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Students could identify their region using the map and discuss any changes or problems they have noticed with the water supply or water quality in their communities.
- Engineering or design classes could discuss how each region should start preparing for water supply problems. Students could work in small groups to design a plan for infrastructure and policies to ensure all people have access to clean drinking water as climate change continues to impact the water cycle.
- Other resources on this topic include this interactive mapping tool that shows the path a raindrop will take through the waterways of the Earth, this TED video on granting rivers and lakes legal personhood, and this podcast on water scarcity.
There is no contradiction in the resource. The data is properly cited and the resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
