Severn sound Open Water

Background

In the past, Severn Sound experienced excessive phosphorus enrichment. This resulted in excessive algae growth, leading to poor water quality conditions for recreational uses such as swimming, and low oxygen conditions for cold water fish communities. In 1985, Severn Sound was listed as an Area of Concern (AOC), one of the most polluted on the Great Lakes. Led by Environment Canada and the Ministry of the Environment, the communities surrounding Severn Sound developed a Remedial Action Plan (RAP), the goals of which were to improve water quality and restore a healthy ecosystem in Severn Sound.

Implementation of the RAP resulted in reduced phosphorus loads through sewage treatment plant upgrades, agricultural projects, private sewage system upgrades, and stormwater treatment. This in turn led to significant improvement in the water quality of the Sound. In 2003, restoration targets had been met, and Severn Sound was delisted as an AOC. The RAP continued as the Severn Sound Environmental Association (SSEA), which monitors 14 stations throughout the Sound in an effort to detect long-term changes in water quality. SSEA continues to monitor water quality and work with municipal partners to ensure that the quality of Severn Sound is maintained.

Monitoring in the open waters of Severn Sound began in 1973 by the Ontario Ministry of Environment. Five stations were regularly sampled – one in each bay of Severn Sound, and one in the open waters. In 1997, the Severn Sound Environmental Association (formerly the Severn Sound Remedial Action Plan) took over regular monitoring, which continues today. The Severn Sound RAP Stage 3 Report called for continued monitoring of Severn Sound in order to assess changes in trophic status in relation to remedial actions and other ecosystem changes in the area (e.g. invasive species, water level changes).

Factors Affecting Water Quality

Severn Sound is a dynamic system that is influenced on a regional scale by the entire Great Lakes system (e.g. introduction of invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels (Dreissena spp) and spiny water flea (Bythotrephes), climate change, fluctuating water levels), and on a local scale by its surrounding watershed (point and non-point additions of nutrients and other contaminants).

TRENDS

Severn Sound Water Quality and Lower Food Web:
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