EPA Explores Dead Zone in Lake Erie

June 18, 2002
Scientists from the Environmental Protection Agency are leading a $2 million study of the mysteries of Lake Erie. Or perhaps it should be called Lake Eerie, judging by a "dead zone" that exists in the lake during the summer months.

Unexplained biological changes in the Lake Erie ecosystem will be the focus of the study, which began yesterday. EPA's Great Lakes National Program Office, Environment Canada and scientists from more than 20 universities and institutes will participate in the study, which launched from Cleveland aboard EPA's RV Lake Guardian research vessel.

The ship will serve as a base for the summer-long field season of this two-year project to solve the puzzle of trend changes in Lake Erie's central basin since 1990. Researchers are looking at three patterns that are inconsistent with the usual dynamics of lake functions. They will explore:

  • Why chlorophyll is at historically low levels.
  • Why phosphorus is increasing in Lake Erie water, when the amount of phosphorus going into the lake is not increasing.
  • Why there is a "dead zone," an area essentially devoid of oxygen, in the summer.

"We have tracked Lake Erie for decades and thought we had a good historical understanding of what to expect now and in the future," said Thomas Skinner, Region 5 administrator and Great Lakes National Program Manager. "But the recent discovery of sudden biological changes, which could have long-term effects on the ecosystem, prompted this all-out investigation."

The study will bring together experts in the biology and chemistry of lakes to look at the possibility that zebra mussels or other invading species, an increase in ultraviolet light, or that a variety of chemicals may be changing the workings of the lake.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

Navigating ESG Risk in Your Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover the role of ESG in supply chains, from reducing carbon footprints to complying with new regulations and enhancing long-term business value.

Understanding ESG Risks in the Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Understand the critical role of ESG in supply chains, the risks for hiring companies, and the competitive edge suppliers gain by prioritizing sustainability.

Best Practices for Managing Subcontractor Risk

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover how to effectively manage subcontractor risk with unified strategies, enhanced oversight, and clear communication for consistent safety and compliance.

Building a Culture of Support: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health in the Workplace

Sept. 26, 2024
Find best practices for setting up an organizational culture that promotes positive mental health and suicide prevention.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!