Acid Rain Hurting Two Northern Watersheds

Acid Rain Hurting Two Northern Watersheds

Friday, March 16, 2007 at 14:19

 

 

Northern Saskatchewan’s Churchill River system is feeling the pinch of industrial oilsands development — according to an official with the provincial government.

 

Dr. Terry Hanley of the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority says a recent study shows acid levels in that watershed are higher than normal.

 

Hanley says the long-term effect of this could mean a change in the PH balance of the system.

 

However, he notes the Churchill River system is otherwise considered very healthy.

 

Hanley feels the situation can still right itself if a coordinated approach is taken between the Saskatchewan and Alberta governments.

 

But he warns there will be consequences if nothing is done.

 

The study also found there is stress from acid deposition taking in the Black Lake watershed, as well — but it is not at the level seen in the Churchill River system.

 

All but six of the province’s 26 watersheds are feeling the effects of human activity. The systems that are still considered healthy are in the northern half of the province.