Identifying local factors and sources affecting stream chloride concentrations in the Toronto Region

The proposed research will identify the dominant drivers of rising chloride concentrations in streams within the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) jurisdiction. The TRCA monitors stream water quality at 47 stations and data suggest that chloride concentrations are increasing. Previous research has identified urban growth and the subsequent application of road salt in wintertime as a dominant driver of these trends. However, chloride concentrations are increasing in rural, urbanizing and heavily urbanized TRCA watersheds suggesting that changes in chloride sources and/or weather patterns may also be factors to consider. The intern will investigate these potential drivers by: (1) identifying changes in chloride sources in streams and (2) assessing if weather patterns have changed over time and subsequently influenced road salt application patterns. This project will benefit the TRCA by determining why chloride concentrations are increasing and providing valuable information to direct management and mitigation of chloride pollution.

Faculty Supervisor:

Claire Oswald

Student:

Partner:

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation; Professional, scientific and technical services; Public administration

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: