A monitoring framework to assess changes in hydroecological conditions, and sources, distributions and toxicity of contaminants in lakes of the peace-athabasca delta

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The ecosystem services of the Peace-Athabasca Delta (PAD), northern Alberta, a large freshwater landscape world-renowned for its ecological, historical and cultural significance, are threatened by multiple potential stressors including climate change, hydroelectric development and oilsands production. Concerns over declining discharge and increasing pollution of the rivers that flood and sustain the delta have led to a pressing need for targeted, integrated hydroecological, contaminant and toxicity research to ensure the delta is protected now and in the future. In collaboration with industry (BC Hydro; Canadian Natural Resources Limited; Suncor Energy), government (Alberta Environmental Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Agency; Wood Buffalo National Park) and the local multi-stakeholder PAD Ecological Monitoring Program (PADEMP), we willdevelop and apply novel combinations of research and monitoring methods to: 1) track relations among climate, river flow and lake hydrological conditions in the delta, and 2) link the spatial distribution of contaminants (polycyclic aromatic compounds, metals) and their toxicity characteristics in the delta with hydrological pathways and limnological conditions. Knowledge gained will be used to generate an accurate risk assessment and establish the foundation of a state-of-the-art monitoring framework for the delta, which will provide metrics to ensure industrial activities are following best environmental practices to limit downstream cumulative effects. Our proposed research is distinct from but will directly complement the JointCanada-Alberta Oil Sands Monitoring Program, which focuses largely on the Athabasca River mainstem. Our studies will help to ensure Canada maximizes the benefits and minimizes the costs of developing natural resources in the Peace and Athabasca watersheds. Staff from the government agencies and PADEMP will be trained in methods of field sampling, and analysis and interpretation of the data to build local capacity and ensure continuation of the monitoring. The project will provide exceptional basic and applied research and training opportunities for graduate students and research technicians pursuing careers in this field.