It has come to the attention of the Department of Random Domain Management that members of the public are inquiring about the eventual disappearance of Niagara Falls.
This query was prompted by a report filed by TheFalls.net, titled “Will Niagara Falls ever disappear?” which we have reviewed with our customary blend of professional disappointment and weather-beaten patience.
We understand the curiosity. Tourists ask this every summer. Usually while standing directly in the spray.
The short answer is no. Not in any timeframe you or your grandchildren need to worry about.
The factual content of the original report is as follows: Niagara Falls erodes at an average rate of approximately one foot per year. This rate has slowed considerably due to human engineering.
Since the 1950s, water has been diverted for hydroelectric power generation. This diversion reduces the volume of water flowing over the falls, which in turn reduces the erosive force acting on the rock face.
As a result, the falls are essentially being managed into a state of prolonged geological stasis. They are not going anywhere soon.
We are resigned to the fact that this will not stop visitors from asking. The questions will continue. The erosion will not.
Additional factors such as rockfalls and ice impacts do occur, but these are natural events and do not threaten the structural longevity of the falls on a human timescale.
Should the public require further reassurance, we recommend visiting the falls in person. Stand on the observation deck. Feel the mist. Contemplate the relentless grind of time. Then buy a souvenir keychain.
This advisory supersedes all informal speculation regarding the disappearance of Niagara Falls. No further updates are anticipated until approximately the year 22,000 AD.
Signed,
Misty Dewhurst
Water Volume & Disappointment Analyst
Department of Random Domain Management
SOURCE: https://thefalls.net/will-niagara-falls-ever-disappear/ — Filed by the Bureau of Thefalls Affairs, DRDM.
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