2008-Wabamun Nutrient and Bacterial Study Summary

Over-enrichment of nutrients and resulting excessive growth of algae (eutrophication) is a pressing issue in many Alberta lakes and is often a driving factor behind the work of local watershed stewardship groups (e.g. Wabamun Watershed Management Council). It is essential to understand the sources of these nutrients (phosphorus being most important) in order to guide short and long-term stewardship activities. At Wabamun Lake, AB, a sampling program was performed back in the early 1980’s to determine the main sources of phosphorus entering the lake. Results showed that inputs from the lake mud, large streams and precipitation were the most important sources of phosphorus enrichment to the lake. Read More