Water quality in the lower Athabasca River

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The mining and refining of bitumen from the Athabasca bituminous sands in Alberta provide enormous economic benefits for Canada, both in terms of jobs and revenue; however, trace element concentrations in the nearby Lower Athabasca River (LAR) could be increased as a result. The LAR is a large and complex aquatic system with ultra-low background concentrations of trace elements (parts-per-trillion range), and multiple natural inputs of trace elements. It is therefore necessary to distinguish natural and industrial trace element contributions using thorough and scientifically sound sampling and analysis. In this project we will distinguish natural and industrial sources of trace elements by analyzing the composition and structure of micro- and nano-scale particles. In the process, we will further our understanding of geochemical behaviour in complex aquatic systems, trace element speciation, and seasonal and spatial differences in the sources and biogeochemistry of trace elements. We will develop novel sampling technologies and analytical methods while utilizing ultra-trace metal-free equipment and facilities to avoid contamination. Particular attention will be paid to differences in trace element distributions caused by flow variations with depth and across transects, and to the impacts and behaviour of organic matter and iron oxyhydroxides from tributaries. We will thereby provide valuable information about anthropogenic contributions to trace element concentrations in the LAR and their distribution amongst chemical species that are related to bioaccessibility, to support social licensing and future decision-making related to water quality guidelines.