Why is Mercury Rising in Some Northern Lakes and Not Others?

PhD, Carleton University

This project will generate new knowledge of how climate change affects contaminant mobility to and from peatlands and lake sediments that can be released into Arctic surface waters. Specifically, we will reconstruct past climate–hydrology–contaminant linkages using paleoecological and paleolimnological records from peatlands and lake sediments to determine the processes controlling mercury (Hg) accumulation in sediment of lakes of concern in Nunavut. Ultimately, improved knowledge on the factors affecting the biogeochemistry of Hg in high northern latitudes will improve land use decision making and management. The community of Rankin Inlet via the Kangiqliniq Hunters and Trappers Organization and the Kivalliq Inuit Association (KIA) have identified several lakes of concern to target for sampling and study.