Methods of Study

Monitoring activity plays an important role in reducing nitrogen and phosphorus in the lake and its tributaries. Collected data will provide scientists and managers with the information they need to develop strategies and remedial action plans to improve the lake's health.

Currently the monitoring network includes:

• Four water quality monitoring stations located in lower parts of the main rivers around the lake
• Two stations upstream in the Nonquon River subwatershed
• One station near the Scugog River Outlet from Lake Scugog
• One station at the outlet from Osler Marsh into the lake
• One precipitation sampler near the mouth of the Nonquon River
• Six stations on the lake

In addition, there are six flow monitoring stations located on the Nonquon River (2), Blackstock Creek (2) and East Cross Creek (2). See the watershed map for the locations of these monitoring sites.

Water sampling and discharge measurements are undertaken biweekly on the tributaries and monthly on the lake. Water samples are analyzed for total phosphorus (TP), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), ammonia (NH4+), nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-). As well dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity and temperature are measured with a YSI meter. Continuous monitoring over the next 3-5 years will enable us to effectively evaluate and determine spatial and temporal trends and patterns.