Assessing Climate Science Knowledge Gaps to support the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement

Session: 52. - Climate Interactions with Large Lakes? Physical Systems

Glenn Milner, Ontario Climate Consortium, [email protected]
Frances Delaney, Ontario Climate Consortium, [email protected]

Abstract

The implications of climate change on water quality across the Great Lakes is of significant concern, but is still not widely understood. Many knowledge gaps exist which prevent resource managers and practitioners from recognizing climate change impacts that may cause degradation in water quality. This research follows the identification of such knowledge gaps in the published report, State of Climate Change Science in the Great Lakes Basin: A Focus on Climatological, Hydrological and Ecological Effect,to provide an analysis of climate change research needs and key areas for future work priorities. This report was prepared by the Ontario Climate Consortium on behalf of Annex 9 (Climate Change Impacts) of the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA). Although the research is specific to the climate change priorities and needs of the Annexes under the GLWQA, the authors hope that this information can be used to inform the science community and stimulate research pertaining to the recognized knowledge gaps. This presentation will highlight results of the report, including the gaps in climate change science, their priority to be filled to meet Annex objectives, and lessons learned regarding how climate change is being addressed within the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

1. Keyword
climate change

2. Keyword
Great Lakes basin

3. Keyword
policy making

4. Additional Keyword
Knowledge Gaps

5. Additional Keyword
Water Quality