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Effects of Acid Precipitation on Lakes and Rivers
Acidification of freshwater lakes in Nova Scotia is causing concern in many aspects of its ecosystems, including Common loon productivity levels and fish composition. Kejimkujik National Park and surrounding area contains poor acid buffering geology and soils. The area is topographically low in comparison to surrounding areas, receives deposition of acid rain from major emission producers in central Canada and the northeastern United States, and the area's lakes are small and shallow. This causes relatively low pH levels in the freshwater lakes of the area. Evidence shows acidity to be recovering in precipitation after a reduction in emissions, but at a slower rate than originally expected. Monitoring has been undertaken to acquire information on water quality that will lead to a model for future management plans.
Monitoring Basic Water Quality Parameters
By measuring pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and conductivity of selected lakes in and around Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, we will gain an understanding of how emission reductions and climate variations affect acidity, and better understand how water quality affects ecosystems in the long term.
Water quality data were collected in 34 lakes during August at meter intervals. Data was collected at the deepest point in the lake using a YSI multiprobe Sonde (pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and conductivity) and a Secchi disk (lake colouration). Water samples were collected to test concentrations of Chlorophyll a in lakes as well.
Findings To Date
-50% of 16 lakes monitored in 2009 had a pH below 5
-25% had a pH between 5 and 6
-25% had a pH of 6 and above
-A significant increase in pH was recorded in two lakes (Donnellan and Harmony) between 2008 and 2009.
Since emission reduction, deposition has decreased but lake acidity has not decreased at the rate originally hypothesized. This could be due to the area's low buffering capability and needs further monitoring and assessment.
Years of Data Collection
Ongoing project since 2005
Project Partners
Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute
Acadia University
Environment Canada
Parks Canada
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