Developing a cumulative impact assessment for nutrients in the St. Lawrence River

In this proposed research project, we aim to address the question: How have nutrient levels in the St. Lawrence River (SLR) changed in response to historic anthropogenic activity? The project would aim to: 1) describe the changes in phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations over the past >70 years in the section of the SLR between Lake St. Francis and Lake St. Pierre, and 2) develop statistical models to quantify the impact of potential explanatory variables such as land use change, climate and water flow. The intern will conduct a systematic data search and review to identify and acquire all available data for the region. The intern will conduct advanced multivariate statistical analysis to address the key research questions described above. For example, the statistical output will be interpreted to understand spatial and temporal trends in the SLR, including what the key environmental factors are that drive nutrient levels. This research would facilitate new collaborations between Indigenous, academic and non-profit partner organizations to increase effectiveness of monitoring and restoration activities in the region. It would also provide key information for the Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office (KEPO) to protect their waters for recreational, subsistence, and cultural use.

Faculty Supervisor:

Andrea Kirkwood

Student:

Partner:

St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Program: