Agricultural and Biological Sciences
5 years ago

Mercury levels in Canadian bogs near oil sands exceed safe limits.

Ecological Indicators
Atmospheric Hg accumulation rates determined using Sphagnum moss from ombrotrophic (rain-fed) bogs in the Athabasca Bituminous Sands region of northern Alberta, Canada
William Shotyk, Chad W. Cuss

Paper Summary

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Sphagnum moss from bogs in the Athabasca Bituminous Sands region of Alberta was studied to measure mercury levels. Two methods were used: ICP-MS and DMA. Results showed higher mercury levels in moss from the industrial area compared to a control site. However, another method showed lower levels in the industrial area. Mercury levels in the moss were similar in bogs far from the industrial area. The mercury accumulation rates in the industrial area were higher than in the control site, but still within natural ranges. This study provides insights into mercury deposition in Canadian ecosystems from both natural and human sources.