Leech Lake, Muskoka

The publisher is not responsible for the opinions expressed, items published and those providing comments on this BLOG.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

LL Bug Count July 22, 2012

 This was the Benthic (bug collection) activity that took place on our lake. Below you will find a letter from Katie the technician from Muskoka District. Also attached is an explanation of the the benthic monitoring and how it can benefit our lake by keeping on top of trends so remedial action can be taken if necessary.

Kudos to Valerie McCoy and family. They organized and provided their cottage, food, beverages etc.

We hope this is education.  





Hello Valerie,
  I wanted to thank you, your family and the wonderful people of Leech Lake for volunteering on the benthic sampling day. Everyone appeared to have a great time and learn plenty of new things. Leech Lake is very lucky to have you all.
  Please find attached an official thank you letter, followed by some graphic displays of the results. I have also included the table of all results from site 2 and the “ Benthic Macro-invertebrate Monitoring” document which helps to further explain the results.
  I have also attached a feedback form. So if you have any more suggestions for next year or the program in general, please let me know.
 Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
  Thank you again,
Katie Paroschy
Biomonitoring Technician 2012
The District Municipality of Muskoka
 
 Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring

Monitoring bottom-dwelling aquatic invertebrate communities has been part of the District Municipality of Muskoka’s Lake System Health Biological Monitoring Program since 2003. In biological monitoring, composition of the aquatic-invertebrate community, the pattern of abundances of different species collected, indicates the health of the ecosystem.
 
Aquatic invertebrates, such as worms, mollusks, insects, crustaceans, and mites, are common indicators in biological-monitoring programs. These animals are sensitive indicators of the health, or condition of lakes and streams, and different species have different sensitivities to environmental changes such as pollution or habitat alteration. Aquatic invertebrates live between 1 and 3 years and are in constant contact with lake sediments. Contamination and toxicity of sediments affects those animals that are sensitive. For example, lake acidification is accompanied by both a decline in the total number of species present, and an increase in the abundance of those species able to tolerate acidity.

Reference-Condition Approach
One of the challenges of biological monitoring is that the composition of healthy invertebrate communities varies from place to place, and from time to time. We therefore have to understand natural variability to be able to make reliable conclusions about whether or not the community that we find in a given lake is normal or not. One way to determine what normal looks like is to sample reference sites. Reference sites are locations where human impacts (such as pollution, shoreline alteration, and development) are minimal and the aquatic ecosystem is considered to be in the best condition found in Muskoka.

Biological-monitoring assessments can make judgments about the condition of lakes by comparing samples from a given lake of interest (a test lake) against a set of samples from reference lakes. In short, reference lakes define what normal Muskoka invertebrate communities should look like in the absence or near-absence of human influence. Atypical sites, which are biologically different from reference sites, warrant further study to determine why their communities are unusual.
Because we need information from minimally-impacted reference sites before we can evaluate our lakes, much of the focus of our bio-monitoring program to-date has been on sampling reference sites. Since reference sites are assumed to be in excellent condition, it doesn’t make sense to report their condition; however, because their communities act as a benchmark for assessing other lakes, it is informative to understand invertebrate-community composition in reference lakes, and to watch for changes in reference lake composition over time. This report serves to characterize reference lake community structure, and gives a preliminary assessment of local test lakes.
 
Data analysis
Biological monitoring programs yield large data tables. You can envision such tables as columns of numbers, each column representing the counts of different species collected at a given location. It is very difficult to pick-out ecological patterns in such complex data sets, so it is common practice to simplify data tables into a manageable number of indices that represent meaningful ecological patterns. This is similar to the way stock-market performance is measured using indices like the TSX or the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The District of Muskoka uses several indices to simplify bio-assessments, as described in Table 1.
 
Table 1: Indices used to summarize aquatic invertebrate composition in Muskoka.
Indicator
What it tells us:
Number of taxa collected:
 
(Richness)
The number of taxa is a measure of biological diversity. Richness increases with increasing habitat diversity, suitability, and water quality; therefore, the healthier a site’s community, the greater its number of taxa.
 
Percent of collection made-up of mayflies, dragonflies, damselflies, and caddisflies
(% EOT)
Ephemeroptera (mayflies), Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies), and Trichoptera (caddisflies) are very sensitive to pollution and habitat alteration. They should be prominent in healthy ecosystems, but their numbers will decline in response to stress imposed by human activities.
 
Percent of collection made-up of midges
(% Chironomidae)
Midges (true flies in the family Chironomidae) are tolerant of pollution and habitat changes so their dominance indicates water quality problems.
 
Percent of collected animals that are predators
(% predators)*
In a healthy ecosystem, the numbers of predators and prey are maintained within a narrow range. Extreme fluctuations in this balance signify that the ecosystem is sick.
 
Percent of collected animals that are adapted to feeding on coarse plant matter
(% shredders)*
Shredders are a group of plant eaters adapted to breaking down leaves, wood, and other plant matter that originates on land but gets transported into waterbodies. Such animals should be abundant if there is a good connection between a lake and its watershed. In addition to recycling nutrients, shredders are food for other animals.
 
Percent of collected animals that are adapted to feeding by collecting small pieces of organic matter
(% collector/gatherers)*
Collector-gatherers feed on small pieces of organic matter that arise from the processing activities of shredders (described above). Their presence indicates a good population of shredders, which provide them with food. Like shredders, these animals perform a vital role in energy cycling, and are prey for other animals.
 
Organic pollution score
(Hilsenhoff index value)
The Hilsenhoff index combines information about the abundances of different types of animals collected at a site with information about those animals’ sensitivities to sewage pollution, farm wastes, and other sources of nutrients like phosphorus, nitrogen, and carbon. High values of this index indicate pollution; low values indicate good water quality.
 
∗ In healthy ecosystems, the proportion of the aquatic-invertebrate community that is made-up of predators, shredders, collector/gatherers, and other animals is maintained within a narrow range. Marked divergences in abundances of any type of animal signifies a stressed ecosystem.
 
How do your local sites fare?
For a preliminary evaluation of your lake, refer to the attached Aquatic Invertebrate Data Sheet. If your sites are reference lakes, assumed to reflect the best ecosystem conditions in Muskoka, no assessment is warranted. For test locations, assessments can be made by comparing test-site index values against the averages for Muskoka reference lakes, which are provided in the shaded box at bottom right.
 
In general,
1. Richness should be high (close to the average for Muskoka or above).
2. % EOT will decrease and % Chironomids will increase over time with water quality impairment.
3. % Predators should be less than the other types of benthos (shredders, collector/gatherers) and these percentages should remain relatively constant over time.
4. The Hilsenhoff Index value should be close to the average for Muskoka or less, as a lower value indicates healthier water.
 
Even though most of the lakes in Muskoka are quite similar, no two lakes are identical and there are various factors that play a role in determining the relative abundances of different types of aquatic invertebrates. Comparing your lake’s data to the rest of the lakes in Muskoka is not definite, but it can give you an idea. If there is a trend in all the types of indices and data, either above or below normal, it may indicate your lake’s overall quality.


25 Comments:

At 3:32 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have read so many content regarding the blogger lovers however this piece of writing is in fact a nice paragraph, keep it up.


My web site :: bankruptcy in florida
My web page - bankruptcy laws in florida

 
At 9:54 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey there, I think your website might be having browser compatibility issues.
When I look at your blog in Ie, it looks fine but
when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.
I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that,
wonderful blog!

Here is my webpage - Windows Xp Registry Cleaner

 
At 5:02 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Relevant link building can help you in SEO. This should really be before the content but start with a
great domain name. The rankings will largely depend on the back links which are broken or lead to spams/scams.


my site :: nerium optimera

 
At 7:36 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

After lоoking іnto ɑ handful of the blоog articles on your
web site, I really aρpreciate ƴour way of blogging. I saved
it to my bookmark site list ɑnd will be checking back soon. Takke a loоk at my weƄsite too and tell me how
you feel.

Visit myy blog post; milking machine for sale

 
At 1:53 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

My spoսse and I absolutely loνe your blog and find the mаjority
of your pοst's to be exactly wɦat ӏ'm looking fοr. Do you offer guest writers to write content fօr you personally?
I wouldn't mіnd composіng a post or elaborating on some of tɦe
subjects you write in relation to here. Again, awesome web lоg!


ʟook into my web blog; ford ranger for sale

 
At 8:23 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I've learn some good stuff here. Definitely price bookmarking for revisiting.

I surprise how much effort you place to make this kind of
excellent informative site.

Here is my website; After Effects Templates

 
At 11:32 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

bacterial vaginosis bv symptoms bv symptoms treatment for bv what causes bv

 
At 2:26 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I like what you guys tend to be up too. This sort of clever work
and exposure! Keep up the great works guys I've added you guys to our blogroll.



my web-site; best double stroller 2014

 
At 8:48 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

If you are this type of person, then this system is not
for you. About three quarters of these are done through Google and Yahoo, and almost a third
of those are people related searches. The temptations for the
struggling network marketer or newbie can be overwhelming
and contributes greatly to failure of most make consistent money online.



Feel free to surf to my web blog easiest way to make money online

 
At 1:01 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

In the event you acquire scratched much: worship any a single superstar the almighty together
with HLand possess the troops move to the vice metropolis exept yet 3 of each and every troops and also set thoos about endure soil.

Games are rated anywhere from Early Childhood (EC) to Adults Only
(AO). Be sure to check if the game has violence,
as many games do contain it.

Also visit my page :: Clash of Clans HackClash of Clans CheatsClash of Clans BotClash of Clans Free GemsClash of Clans Unlimited Gems

 
At 2:03 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I used to be recommended this website by means of my cousin. I am now not positive
whether this post is written via him as nobody else know such exact approximately my
difficulty. You are amazing! Thank you!

Also visit my web blog :: flappy bird cheat codes for pc

 
At 4:10 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was good.

I don't know who you are but definitely you're going to a famous
blogger if you are not already ;) Cheers!

Also visit my page - best web hosting for food blogs, ,

 
At 3:46 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

A disappointing Toyota Motor Corp, after life insurance all your financial obligations.
Some of your life insurance policy, but the best company for you?
Renowned brands such as these, life reinsurance is mostly purchased
by an insurance policy itself constructs no cash in your
state. 2 billion deterioration in health since the blood test is performed to decide what it says," I've had better days. Taxes are deferred on the condition, you need to renew the policy that does not affect you because it will generally be charged on that later.

Here is my page; www.cheaplife-insurance.net ()

 
At 11:16 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Great weblog right here! Additionally your site a lot up very
fast! What host are you the usage of? Can I get your associate link to your host?
I want my website loaded up as quickly as yours lol

Here is my website :: ac repair north houston

 
At 10:58 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

You should check out my website, I tried doing a bit
of SEO but it didn't really work though
Blogger: Leech Lake, Muskoka - The newest addition to my weekly read!

 
At 12:15 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'd like to find out more? I'd like to find out some addtional information.

Alsso visit my page; african mango plus

 
At 11:56 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi to all, since I am actually eager of reading this website's post to
be updated on a regular basis. It includes fastidious stuff.



my homepage; Pinterest repins

 
At 6:18 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi there to every body, it's my first pay a visit
of this website; thus webpage contains awesome and in fact excellent information designed for visitors.


Also visit my web page; Executive Travel Barkway
(http://www.fizzlive.com/)

 
At 3:21 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

When selecting a hosting company there are certain things to consider with number one being
price and value. Those administrators planning to extend their website and adding more advanced features to it will find the SQL
Server Hosting services to be the most dynamic solutions available.
Other goodies In order to stand out from the crowd, these web hosting companies throw in many
other services and freebies to attact more customers.


my website fast web hosting

 
At 4:27 AM, Anonymous rent rent said...

Connected with which has a strokes an individual exactly who never smoked and so i\'m involving anyone's loved the usually are crucial others tend to .

http://binaryoptionpay.com/
http://findbinaryoption.com/
http://findbestbinaryoption.com/
http://findtopbinaryoption.com/
http://binaryoptiontopbroker.com/
http://binaryoptionwork.com/
http://binaryoptionworkhelp.com/
http://binaryoptionworksupport.com/
http://listedbinaryoption.com/
http://reliablebinaryoption.com/

 
At 10:13 PM, Blogger chenlili said...

chenlili20150907
ralph lauren outlet
longchamp outlet
michael kors outlet online
jordan shoes
true religion
ray ban uk
caoch outlet
michael kors uk
michael kors outlet
hollister
giuseppe zanotti shoes
louis vuitton outlet
coach purses
coach outlet store online
ray ban sunglasses
michael kors outlet
adidas superstar 2
uggs for men
oakley sunglasses
tod's outlet
coach factory outlet
pandora jewelry
gucci bags
hollister.com
coach outlet
burberry scarf
new jordans
jordan 8 playoffs
louis vuitton outlet
uggs outlet

 
At 2:11 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

2015-9-24 xiaozhengm
Authentic Louis Vuitton Monogram Handbag
Red Bottom Shoes Christian Louboutin
cheap ugg boots
toms outlet
Louis Vuitton Outlet High Quality
Authentic Gucci Factory Outlet
Jordan Retro 13 Pink And Grey
Coach Factory Outlet Online Authentic
Designer Louis Vuitton Handbags Online
ralph lauren
oakley sunglasses,oakley vault,prescription sunglasses,polarized sunglasses,aviator sunglasses,spy sunglasses,oakleys,oakley canada,cheap oakley sunglasses,oakley frogskins,oakley holbrook,cheap sunglasses,wayfarer sunglasses,oakley standard issue,fake oakleys,oakley glasses,oakley.com,oakley prescription glasses,oakley goggles,sunglasses for men,oakley gascan,oakley store,oakleys sunglasses
Air Jordan Shoes For Women And Men
jordans for sale
michael kors handbags
ugg sale
Air Jordan 4 Green Glow
Toms Shoes Sale Clearance
Michael Kors Outlet Handbags Wholesale
Jordan Retro 8 Playoffs
Designer Handbags Louis Vuitton
coach outlet
Abercrombie and Co Stoves and Awnings
Christian Louboutin Outlet Authentic Sneakers Online
Coach Outlet Store Online Official Website
abercrombie and fitch
Outlet Michael Kors Online
ugg boots
Authentic Louis Vuitton Handbags Cheap Sale
Authentic Louis Vuitton Handbags Outlet
Louis Vuitton Outlet Quality Handbags
Air Jordan 6 Cigar
Michael Kors Factory Outlet Online Official

 
At 12:50 AM, Blogger oakleyses said...

ray ban, toms shoes, moncler, pandora jewelry, barbour, converse, canada goose, moncler, doke gabbana, ugg, canada goose, moncler, sac louis vuitton, sac lancel, canada goose, canada goose, barbour, moncler, ugg, louis vuitton, thomas sabo, canada goose uk, pandora jewelry, gucci, moncler outlet, moncler, louis vuitton, juicy couture outlet, wedding dresses, supra shoes, canada goose outlet, swarovski, karen millen, air max, marc jacobs, rolex watches, pandora charms, juicy couture, ugg boots, hollister, louis vuitton uk, sac louis vuitton, abercrombie, converse shoes, vans, montre homme, moncler, links of london, coach outlet store online, canada goose jackets, moncler

 
At 12:57 AM, Blogger chenlili said...

nfl jerseys wholesale
hollister co
prada bags
adidas stan smith shoes
ralph lauren outlet online
flops
nike air max
north face
ugg boots
tory burch outlet
201712.19chenjinyan

 
At 3:36 PM, Blogger deraz said...

النجم
تركيب ستلايت فى دبى
تصليح وصيانة مكيفات دبى

 

Post a Comment

<< Home