Pigeon and Wabamun Lakes are among the most heavily used recreational lakes in Alberta. Recently, apparent increases in algal blooms and fish kills have threatened the ecological integrity of...
Description
Pigeon and Wabamun Lakes are among the most heavily used recreational lakes in Alberta. Recently, apparent increases in algal blooms and fish kills have threatened the ecological integrity of these systems and may negatively affect their value to users. Limnological studies for the lakes are limited to the past 35 years, leading to uncertainty about the degree to which water quality has changed due to human activities. This study was initiated to fill this information gap from historical limnological data preserved in lake sediments. To better understand how to effectively manage cumulative impacts on the lakes, it is necessary to understand conditions in the lakes prior to development. Knowing these pre-development conditions will assist in setting reasonable and achievable goals for lake management.