Abstract
This study aimed to assess the spatial and temporal variations in water quality parameters along the North Saskatchewan River, with a particular focus on comparing upstream and downstream conditions relative to the city of Edmonton, between 2018 and 2022. Ten primary indicators, including metals, nutrients, and biological indicators, were analyzed using data from two long-term monitoring stations: Devon Station (upstream) and Pakan Bridge (downstream). T-tests (α = 0.05) were employed to compare parameter concentrations between the two stations for both summer (April to September) and winter (October to March) seasons.
Results indicated that total phosphorus, total dissolved solids, total nitrate plus nitrite, and E.coli concentrations exhibited significant differences between upstream and downstream stations, with varying seasonal patterns. Notably, total phosphorus and E.coli concentrations were significantly lower at the upstream station during the winter and summer seasons, respectively. Meanwhile, total dissolved solids and total nitrate plus nitrite concentrations were consistently higher downstream of Edmonton throughout the study period. No significant differences were observed for pH, dissolved oxygen, total mercury, and total organic carbon.
This study highlights the importance of continuous water quality monitoring and the potential impact of urban areas on riverine systems. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the causes of observed differences in water quality parameters and the implementation of effective management actions to mitigate negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and public health.
Results indicated that total phosphorus, total dissolved solids, total nitrate plus nitrite, and E.coli concentrations exhibited significant differences between upstream and downstream stations, with varying seasonal patterns. Notably, total phosphorus and E.coli concentrations were significantly lower at the upstream station during the winter and summer seasons, respectively. Meanwhile, total dissolved solids and total nitrate plus nitrite concentrations were consistently higher downstream of Edmonton throughout the study period. No significant differences were observed for pH, dissolved oxygen, total mercury, and total organic carbon.
This study highlights the importance of continuous water quality monitoring and the potential impact of urban areas on riverine systems. The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the causes of observed differences in water quality parameters and the implementation of effective management actions to mitigate negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems and public health.
About the authorHello there! I am Angie Tamara, a Colombian Biologist currently pursuing my Master of Agriculture degree with a specialization in Water and Land Resources at the University of Alberta. During my academic and professional journey, I have worked on several projects related to water quality and urban wildlife using data analysis, visualization, and statistical techniques. Aside from my academic and professional pursuits, I have volunteered in the Frost Lab at the University of Alberta, collecting water samples and aquatic insects in different urban ponds across the city of Edmonton. Thank you for taking the time to read about me, and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
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Acknowledgment
I respectfully acknowledge that my University is located on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples including the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/ Saulteaux/Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to influence our vibrant community.