The magnitude of the effect varies considerably — from negligible to as much as 2,000 radiocarbon years in some river systems — depending on the specific geology and hydrology of the water body in question.

The Snake River, where the Buhl quarry was located, flows through a landscape built largely of basalt and carbonate bedrock.

The Snake River Plain is ancient volcanic terrain, and the groundwater and surface water in the region have substantial contact with carbonate minerals over long distances.

The potential for a significant freshwater reservoir effect in the Snake River system is real, not theoretical.

The Buhl Woman ate fish.