Implementing Multi-Agency Bi-National CSMI Program of Offshore Lake Ontario During 2018

Session: State of Lake Ontario: 2003-2018 CSMI Overview (1)

James Watkins, Cornell University, jmw237@cornell.edu
Anne Cotter, EPA, anne.cotter@epa.gov
Lars Rudstam, Cornell University, lgr1@cornell.edu
Frederick Luckey, U.S. EPA, luckey.frederick@epa.gov
Mohiuddin Munawar, Fisheries & Oceans Canada, mohi.munawar@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
James Pauer, USEPA/ORD Mid-Continent Ecology Division, pauer.james@epa.gov
Kelly Bowen, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, bowenk@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Warren Currie, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, warren.currie@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Abstract

Ecosystem assessment of large lakes such as Lake Ontario requires coordination of partner agencies with large research vessels.  In 2018, offshore sampling was organized collaboratively by the US Environmental Protection Agency, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Cornell University.  Monthly lakewide surveys were conducted from April to September 2018. These offshore surveys were coordinated with other sampling efforts including nearshore sampling, diver surveys, autonomous gliders and loading estimates.  This program follows similar efforts conducted in 2003, 2008, and 2013.  Periodic assessment of the status of the lower foodweb is important to evaluate the health of the lake ecosystem and capacity for fish production.  Five north-south transects included water column profiles, nutrient analysis, and biological sampling.  In addition to phytoplankton, primary productivity and zooplankton, fish larvae were also collected using Tucker Trawls.  We present early findings of seasonal development of stratification, formation and dissipation of a deep chlorophyll layer, and seasonal shifts of primary productivity and zooplankton abundance and community composition. A preliminary overview of 2018 state of the lake assessment will be presented.