The Use of Sediment Data as an Indicator of Aquatic Ecosystem Health in the Coppermine River Basin, NWT
Principal Investigator: Peramaki, Liisa (1)
Licence Number: 13152
Organization: University of Waterloo
Licensed Year(s): 2000
Issued: Jul 24, 2000
Project Team: Michael Stone

Objective(s): This study will investigate the quality of aquatic sediment and evaluate its potential as an indicator of ecosystem health in the Coppermine River basin. The 5 major objectives are as follows: describe the risks to the health of the Coppermine River basin and outline the information needs for environmental management; investigate the spatial and temporal variability of the lake bottom sediment chemistry in the headwater region of the river basin; assess the utility of sediment data as an indicator of ecosystem health; assess the utility of sediment data in addressing the information needs of interested parties; and outline the implications for environmental management. The sediment samples will be analyzed for metals, nutrients and grain size. The scientific data will be combined with information obtained from interviews conducted on individuals involved in the environmental management of the river basin.

Project Description: This study will investigate the quality of aquatic sediment and evaluate its potential as an indicator of ecosystem health in the Coppermine River basin. Sediment cores will be collected by boat or float plane at Lac de Gras and Point Lake. The following field measurements will be recorded: water temperature and pH, and sediment colour, texture and pH. In addition, personal interviews will be conducted in Yellowknife with people directly involved in the environmental management of the Coppermine River basin. Approximately 20 participants will be recruited as representatives from the federal and territorial governments, environmental organizations, aboriginal groups and industry. Interviews will be conducted only after informed consent and confidentiality will be maintained.