Life Below Water

Life below water graphic

This societal impact focuses on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.

Through strategic partnerships with governmental agencies and non-governmental organizations, Lakehead University will leverage collective expertise to drive innovation and impact marine conservation initiatives to foster environmental stewardship and raise awareness among members of the community. 

Supporting Aquatic Ecosystems Through Education

14.2.1 Fresh-water ecosystems (community outreach)

Does your university as a body offer educational programmes on fresh-water ecosystems (water irrigation practices, water management/conservation) for local or national communities?

Lakehead University is committed to providing a range of educational programs on fresh-water ecosystems, water irrigation practices, and water management and conservation for both local and national communities.  Throughout 2023-24, Lakehead University offered both free and paid opportunities which included:

  1. Aki Kikinomakaywin Camp: Lakehead University hosts the Aki Kikinomakaywin camp (meaning learning on the land)in collaboration with Confederation College.  The Aki Kikinomakaywin Camp is a week-long educational program that provides Indigenous youth with hands-on training in science, technology, engineering arts and mathematics.  This initiative emphasizes the deep cultural connection to water, including fresh-water ecosystems, water management and conservation.
  2. Ontario Master Naturalist Certificate Program: The Ontario Master Naturalist Certificate Program is aimed at naturalists and those dedicated to environmental stewardship, empowering them to learn and share knowledge of the natural world and engage as stewards of their local ecosystems and resources.  The program includes eight modules including wetlands and water conservation.
  3. Lake Superior Living Labs Network (LSLLN):  Lakehead University is a member of the Lake Superior Living Labs Network, a collaborative that brings together multiple academic institutions and community partners. The LSLLN provides free opportunities for local and national participants throughout the year.  These opportunities revolve around the study and conservation of the freshwater ecosystem of Lake Superior.  The network also includes members from other regions including the United States, promoting collaboration efforts in freshwater ecosystems.
  4. Water Resource Science: Lakehead University offers a paid undergraduate degree program in Water Resource Science.  Located on the shores of Lake Superior at our Thunder Bay campus, this program takes full advantage of the university’s unique natural laboratory.  Students engage in experiential learning in this pristine freshwater environment, gaining practice insights into water management conservation practices. 

These education programs reflect our commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering community engagement in freshwater ecosystems, water management and conservation.

14.2.2 Sustainable fisheries (community outreach)

Does your university as a body offer educational programme / outreach for local or national communities on sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism?

Lakehead University is actively engaged in providing educational programs and outreach initiatives for both local and national communities on the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism.  Our commitment to advance these areas includes free and paid opportunities in 2023-24:

Education Programs: Lakehead University provides paid degree programs in Water Resource Science, Environmental Management and Environmental Sustainability.  These programs offer students a comprehensive understanding of natural processes in environmental ecosystems, including courses in fish and wildlife conservation and management, conservation planning and management and sustainable land use.

Microcredential:  Lakehead University also offers a paid microcredential program known as the Ontario Professional Tourism Industry Specialist (OPTIS) / Northern Ontario Professional Tourism Industry Specialist (NOPTIS) to foster growth in the tourism industry. 

Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC): Lakehead University is home to the Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC) which conducts regulatory testing and monitoring of effluent impacts on aquatic organisms.  This research is particularly relevant for industries such as pulp and paper mills, mines and municipalities, helping to assess and mitigate potential environmental impacts.  The ATRC serves clients across the North Shore, contributing to the protection of aquatic ecosystems.

Research Collaborations: Lakehead University is collaborating with the IISD Experimental Lakes Area, Myera Group and Indigenous communities on a multi-year research project to study water quality and aquatic ecosystem health associated with co-culture of fish and wild rice. The project aims to evaluate the capacity of wild rice to bioremediate aquaculture waste products and determine what beneficial effects the plants can receive from this treatment in terms of growth and nutrient composition. The project will develop and implement community-based water quality monitoring, assess the health of resident fish and the quality of aquatic habitats, and allow sustainable practices to be established for the co-culture of fish and wild rice by Indigenous communities.

Lakehead University remains committed to expanding educational and outreach initiatives in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture and tourism, working closely with local, regional and Indigenous communities.

Through these academic programs, research initiatives, and collaborative efforts, Lakehead University strives to inform and empower local and national communities in the sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism, ensuring the responsible use of natural resources and the preservation of our valuable ecosystems. 

14.2.3 Overfishing (community outreach)

Does your university as a body offer educational outreach activities for local or national communities to raise awareness about overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and destructive fishing practices?

Lakehead University is involved in providing educational outreach activities for local and national communities to raise awareness about overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, as well as destructive fishing practices. In 2023-24, our offerings include free and paid opportunities: 

  1. Education Programs: Lakehead University provides paid degree programs in Water Resource Science, Environmental Management and Environmental Sustainability.  These programs offer students a comprehensive understanding of natural processes in environmental ecosystems, these include courses in fish and wildlife conservation and management, conservation planning and management and sustainable land use.
  2. Research at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) - Experimental Lakes Area: Dr. Michael Rennie, a Canada Research Chair in Freshwater Ecology and Fisheries at Lakehead University conducts applied research at the IISD - Experimental Lakes Area aimed at shaping environmental and natural resource policy through investigating impacts of human activities in the natural environment (e.g. aquaculture), evaluating variation in fish movement, food web and population structure in large lakes, and how variation can inform better management.
  3. Research Collaborations: Lakehead University in partnership with the Seven First Nations that include Rocky Bay (or Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek), Lake Nipigon Ojibway (or Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek), Sand Point (or Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek), Pic Mobert (or Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg), Red Rock Indian Band, Whitesand First Nation and Fort William First Nation are planning collaborative conservation efforts around Lake Superior by learning how to test the waters and the beings in them. Initial results show elevated levels of mercury in samples of walleye, northern pike, lake trout and sucker. The community developed consumption guidelines for these species, indicating the maximum number that can be safely eaten each month, but further analysis is needed to determine whether other fish types are safe to eat.

Through these educational outreach activities, Lakehead University aims to empower local and national communities with knowledge and resources to address the issues of overfishing, IUU fishing, and destructive fishing practices. The university is committed to fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the protection and sustainable use of marine resources.

Supporting Aquatic Ecosystems Through Education

14.3.1 Conservation and sustainable utilization of the oceans (events)

Does your university as a body support and/or organise events aimed to promote conservation and sustainable utilisation of the oceans, seas, lakes, rivers and marine resources?

Lakehead University supports and organises events aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable utilisation of oceans, seas, lakes, rivers and marine resources.  Examples of initiatives and events organised in 2023-24 include:

  1. Aki Kikinomakaywin Camp: In collaboration with Confederation College, Lakehead University hosts the Aki Kikinomakaywin camp (meaning learning on the land), a week-long educational program that provides Indigenous youth with hands-on training in science, technology, engineering arts and mathematics.  This initiative emphasizes the deep cultural connection to water, highlighting the belief that water is life, that possesses a spirit and is medicine. 
  2. Speakers and Seminars:  Lakehead University hosts various events throughout the year featuring experts in water conservation and sustainable utilisation including a World Water Day “Protecting our Waters” webinar event in 2024 which featured Indigenous speakers and scholars addressing sustainable management of freshwater resources. These events aim to raise awareness about pressing issues and share innovation solutions for sustainable practices.  By engaging with the community, Lakehead inspires a collective commitment to protecting our precious aquatic ecosystems.  
  3. Lake Superior Living Labs Network (LSLLN):  Lakehead University is a key partner in the Lake Superior Living Labs Network, a collaborative platform that facilitates partnerships between academic institutions, government and community groups. This network is dedicated to safeguarding the Lake Superior watershed, covering aspects related to water, land, food, climate, and energy. Throughout the year, the LSLLN hosts various events centred around the conservation and sustainable utilisation of water resources, including a Summit in 2024 that brought experts together to discuss the importance of the Lake Superior Watershed. These events include activities for World Water Day and initiatives that explore Indigenous connections to the Lake Superior watershed.
  4. Thunder Bay Remedial Action Plan: Operated within Lakehead University, the Thunder Bay Remedial Action Plan focuses on addressing environmental impairments in “Areas of Concern” on the Great Lakes.  These impairments encompass chemical, physical and biological degradation, leading to pollution and habitat degradation.  The Remedial Action Plan serves as a vital hub, fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders who work collectively to protect and rehabilitate areas on Lake Superior.  Events and news can be found here.

14.3.2 Food from aquatic ecosystems (policies)

Does your university as a body have a policy to ensure that food on campus that comes from aquatic ecosystems is sustainably harvested?

Lakehead University Conference and Food Service is responsible for supplying a diverse range of food services, including seafood to our university’s dining hall, campus food outlets and events, and catering operations.  In our commitment to safeguarding aquatic ecosystems, Lakehead prioritizes sustainable sourcing practices.

Operationally, Lakehead's Procurement Policy (amended in 2018) includes a commitment that all procurement activities are ethical, efficient, accountable and sustainable. This commitment is also reflected in our Sustainability Plan, which commits to ensuring dining services purchase food and beverages that are third-party verified to be ecologically sound, fair and humane.   Through goals identified in the Sustainability Plan, Lakehead continues to increase support of sustainable food systems and minimize the purchase of conventionally produced animal products.  

Aramark, the contracted food service provider at Lakehead Thunder Bay, endeavours to source its food supply from sustainable food systems. This is evident through its Green Thread environment sustainability platform/policy. Aramark has a chain of custody certification that provides assurance that all seafood used are Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Certification Scheme (ASC) certified.  The MSC and ASC certification sets high standards for sustainable fishing, ensuring fish populations are healthy and ecosystems are preserved; and sustainably farmed to protect the environment, animal welfare, water quality and social responsibility. Nationally, Aramark is working toward a goal of sourcing 100% sustainably sourced fish and seafood from local sources, either grown or caught within provincial borders, from small and medium-scale community-based fisheries where possible.  

14.3.3 Maintain ecosystems and their biodiversity (direct work)

Does your university as a body work directly (research and/or engagement with industries) to maintain and extend existing ecosystems and their biodiversity, of both plants and animals, especially ecosystems under threat?

Lakehead University is engaged in research and industry partnerships aimed at preserving and expanding existing ecosystems and their biodiversity, with a particular focus on ecosystems that are under threat.

The Greenwood Lake Conservation Reserve was established by Lakehead University with a unique remnant of old-growth white pine in the Western part of Ontario. Research is conducted to understand the conditions to help restore the white pines in the Ontario forests.

Lakehead's Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC) specializes in regulatory testing-monitoring the effect of effluents on aquatic organisms from pulp and paper mills, mines and related industrial discharges in Northwestern Ontario, in addition, the ATRC offers various toxicity testing services to industry & government. 

In 2023–24, Dr. Robert Stewart in the Department of Geography at Lakehead University continued to lead the development and network of the Lake Superior Remedial Action Plan which examines issues pertinent to freshwater coastal regions, including environmental biodiversity, and rehabilitation of environmental pollutants.

Lakehead’s  Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Mining and Exploration is working to address challenges regarding how best to undertake sustainable economic development while ensuring environmental protection and respecting constitutionally protected Aboriginal and Treaty rights in Northern Ontario’s dynamic mining sector. The Centre is working to address these challenges by linking Lakehead University researchers with partners from First Nations, Metis, government, and industry. This collaborative approach recognizes that Canadian natural resource development requires sophisticated planning, collaboration, assessment, implementation, and remediation strategies that are calculated to minimize negative environmental, socio-economic, and cultural impacts.  The Centre is led by Dr. Pete Hollings, Chair and Professor of Geology at Lakehead University, who is spending five years as the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) Industrial Research Chair in Mineral Exploration, working with Impala Canada to investigate the Lac des Iles palladium mine and the Sunday Lake intrusion of the Midcontinent Rift, both located northwest of Thunder Bay.

14.3.4 Technologies toward aquatic ecosystem damage prevention (direct work)

Does your university as a body work directly (research and/or engagement with industries) on technologies or practices that enable marine industry to minimise or prevent damage to aquatic ecosystems?

Lakehead University is engaged in research and partnerships with industry that directly contribute to minimizing or preventing damage to aquatic ecosystems. Lakehead University is committed to supporting the development of technologies and practices that enable regional industries to minimize their ecological footprint on aquatic ecosystems, with an emphasis on freshwater and Great Lakes environments. This commitment is exemplified by several ongoing projects and collaborations led by university experts in 2023-24:

  1. Great Lakes Freshwater Initiatives:  The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change funded several Lakehead University freshwater projects to support region-specific actions to restore water quality and ecosystem health.  These projects include restoring riparian and coastal habitat for fish and wildlife, community engagement initiatives and developing new wetland to restore cold-water creek system.
  2. Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC): Lakehead University is home to the Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC) which conducts regulatory testing and monitoring of effluent impacts on aquatic organisms.  This research is particularly relevant for industries such as pulp and paper mills, mines and municipalities, helping to assess and mitigate potential environmental impacts.  The ATRC serves industry clients across the North Shore, contributing to the protection and preventing damage to aquatic ecosystems.
  3. Freshwater Coastal Management Research Group:  Dr. Robert Stewart leads an interdisciplinary group examining issues related to freshwater coastal regions including coastal zone management and source water protection.  His work also includes the development of Remedial Action Plans (RAPs) along the north shore of Lake Superior to reduce and eliminate threats to aquatic ecosystems.   

Food & Fishery Systems in the Lake Superior Region: Dr. Charles Levkoe leads various projects within the  Lake Superior Living Labs Network, including the exploration of food and fishery systems in the Lake Superior Region.  As a result of this work, a community partnership was established between Lakehead University and Batchewana First Nation regarding Indigenous fisheries governance and to understand the struggles the community faces related to fishing rights and food sovereignty.

Water Sensitive Waste Disposal

14.4.1 Water discharge guidelines and standards

Does your university as a body support and/or organise events aimed to promote conservation and sustainable utilisation of the oceans, seas, lakes, rivers and marine resources?

Lakehead University adheres to established processes, regulations and oversight agencies to protect ecosystems, wildlife and human-wellbeing to prevent polluted water from entering the water system.  Lakehead University’s water discharge practices meet or exceed provincial or municipal standards and actively promote water as a valued resource.  

Canadian water quality is regulated through municipal by-laws and by provincial and federal legislation which encompasses various aspects of water protection including environmental compliance, spills management, source water protection, safe municipal water drinking systems, conservation efforts, guidelines for land use developments, wetland habitat preservation, transportation of hazardous materials, joint commissions for Canada-US border waters, marine pollution prevention, and public awareness and education initiatives.                                                                                            

In 2023–24, Lakehead complied with all municipal sewage and stormwater discharge bylaws, and with provincial and federal legislation ensuring no hazardous or obstructive pollutants entered local water systems.  All university wastewater is treated by municipal wastewater facilities in Thunder Bay and Orillia, adhering to rigorous health, safety, and environmental criteria.

Furthermore, in 2024, Lakehead University installed backflow prevention devices on the five main feeds to campus to enhance water system efficiency. These devices prevent the reverse flow of water (known as backflow) from campus plumbing systems into the public water supply, protecting water quality, improving performance and reducing unaccounted for water loss.

The Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard (last updated in 2024) identifies procedures for the disposal of waste and hazardous waste to safeguard staff, students, the general public, property and the environment.

Lakehead University’s Sustainability Plan makes commitments to implementing policies and programs to reduce rainwater (i.e. stormwater) runoff and resultant water pollution, and treat water as a resource rather than as a waste product. Our campuses feature rain gardens and outdoor classroom spaces that serve as educational tools for stormwater management and watershed protection. 

Lakehead University's Sustainable Building Policy, (last reviewed in 2025) addresses sustainable building design, including standards for safeguarding water and efficient management of water resources. This policy addresses:

  • LEED certification which includes water quality and discharge considerations

  • Emphasizes the protection of environmental resources and ecosystems

  • Sustainable design aimed at reducing pollution and safeguard health

  • Applies to all major construction and renovation projects

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Rating System Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Rating System used at Lakehead's campuses, includes standards for safeguarding water. Through LEED certification and integrated sustainable design, the university works to minimize negative impacts on local ecosystems, including responsible water management.    

These collective initiatives work to prevent polluted water from entering water systems and to minimize environmental impacts and pollution. 

14.4.2 Action plan to reduce plastic waste

Does your university as a body have an action plan in place to reduce plastic waste on campus?

Lakehead University is dedicated to minimizing plastic usage across its campuses through a multifaceted approach. Our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is reflected in the following initiatives.

  1. Elimination of Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles (Orillia Campus): Lakehead University’s Orillia campus has a Bottled Water Policy (last updated in 2022) which prohibits the sale of single-use plastic water bottles.  This initiative not only reduces plastic waste but upholds the principle that access to clean water is a fundamental right.
  2. Promotion of Reusable Mugs & Dining Ware: To encourage sustainable practices, Lakehead offers incentives for students, faculty and staff who bring their own reusable cups.  This includes discounts at various on-campus facilities.  In addition, trayless dining and reusable dining ware in the cafeterias eliminate the need for single-use plastic containers and contribute to our sustainability goals.
  3. Centralized Waste and Recycling (Thunder Bay Campus): Lakehead Thunder Bay has transitioned to a centralized waste and recycling program.  This innovative approach involves the elimination of office and classroom garbage bins, which will save over 25,000 single-use plastic garbage bags annually while promoting increased recycling through centralized sorting locations.
  4. Recycling Days for Office Supplies and E-Waste Collection: Annually, Lakehead University organizes recycling days to collect various office supplies including ink cartridges, pens, pencils and markers.  E-waste collection events are also organized for the collection of used electronic devices. 
  5. Use of Reusable Containers: Lakehead University has implemented a campus-wide reusable container program for takeout food and beverages.  Students, faculty and staff can enroll in a free app-based program called Cano which tracks their use of reusable containers.  When participants return their containers, they earn rewards that can be redeemed for food and drinks in the cafeteria. As of August 5, 2024, the program has had 414 users, avoiding 163.1 kgs of greenhouse gases and 34.9 kgs of waste.

Lakehead University continues its commitment to sustainable practices and is continuously exploring new avenues to minimize plastic usage. 

14.4.3 Reducing marine pollution (policy)

Does your university as a body have a policy on preventing and reducing marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities? 

Lakehead University adheres to established processes, regulations and oversight agencies aimed at preventing freshwater and marine pollution, especially from land-based activities.  These measures are designed to safeguard the quality of the water resources. 

The university’s freshwater and marine pollution prevention framework comprises of several crucial components:

  1. Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard (last updated in 2024): Lakehead University’s procedures and protocol for the disposal of waste and hazardous materials to safeguard staff, students, the general public, property and the environment.
  2. Stormwater Management: Lakehead University’s Sustainability Plan commits to implementing policies and programs to reduce rainwater (i.e. stormwater). Lakehead has implemented stormwater management techniques to prevent pollutants from entering local water bodies.  This includes the use of rain gardens, permeable surfaces, and best practices based on the LEED framework in construction and landscaping to reduce runoff and filter contaminants in accordance with Lakehead’s Sustainable Building Policy.
  3. Spill Reporting and Response: The Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and the Ontario Regulation 675/98 require immediate reporting of spills, including hazardous materials, to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Spills Action Centre. This allows for a rapid response to mitigate and clean up pollution incidents.
  4. Emergency Response Plans: Lakehead University maintains comprehensive emergency response plans, enabling a rapid and effective response to accidental spills or incidents.
  5. Environmental Assessment: Proposed developments and activities that may affect water quality are subject to environmental assessment processes to assess potential impacts and mitigation measures.

Both provincial and federal legislation govern water and marine quality, encompassing various aspects of water protection including environmental compliance, spills management, source water protection, safe municipal water drinking systems, conservation efforts, guidelines for land use developments, wetland habitat preservation, transportation of hazardous materials, joint commissions for Canada-US border waters, marine pollution prevention, and public awareness and education initiatives. 

These measures collectively work to prevent marine pollution from land-based activities and to respond promptly to pollution incidents to minimize environmental and public health risks.

Maintaining a Local Ecosystem

14.5.1 Minimizing alteration of aquatic ecosystems (plan)

Does your university as a body have a plan to minimise physical, chemical and/or biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems?

Lakehead University is dedicated to minimizing physical, chemical and biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems through a multifaceted approach.  Our commitment to the protection of aquatic ecosystems is evident through the following initiatives: 

  1. Sustainable Building Practices and Environmental Assessments: Proposed developments and activities that may affect water quality are subject to environmental assessment processes to assess potential impacts and mitigation measures as outlined in Lakehead’s Sustainable Building Policy (last updated in 2025).
  2. Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard (last updated in 2024): Lakehead University’s procedures for the disposal of waste and hazardous materials to safeguard staff, students, the general public, property and the environment. The policies includes the following provisions:
    1. Mandates containment, labelling, and disposal of toxic, flammable, corrosive, and biohazardous substances through certified waste carriers.
    2. Details  procedures for handling chemical, biological, and pharmaceutical waste
    3. Reinforces compliance with provincial and federal regulations such as the Ontario Environmental Act, reducing the risk of aquatic ecosystem disruption.
  3. Spill Reporting and Response: The Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and the Ontario Regulation 675/98 require immediate reporting of spills, including hazardous materials, to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Spills Action Centre. This allows for a rapid response to mitigate and clean up pollution incidents.
  4. Emergency Response Plans: Lakehead University maintains comprehensive emergency response plans, enabling a rapid and effective response to accidental spills or incidents.
  5. Elimination of Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles (Orillia Campus): Lakehead University’s Orillia campus has a Bottled Water Policy (last updated in 2022) which prohibits the sale of single-use plastic water bottles.  This initiative not only reduces plastic waste but upholds the principle that access to clean water is a fundamental right.
  6. Centralized Waste and Recycling (Thunder Bay Campus): Lakehead Thunder Bay has transitioned to a centralized waste and recycling program.  This innovative approach involves the elimination of office and classroom garbage bins, which will save over 25,000 single-use plastic garbage bags annually while promoting increased recycling through centralized sorting locations.
  7. Recycling Days for Office Supplies and E-Waste Collection: Annually, Lakehead University organizes recycling days to collect various office supplies including ink cartridges, pens, pencils and markers.  E-waste collection events are also organized for the collection of used electronic devices. 
  8. Stormwater Management: Lakehead University’s Sustainability Plan commits to implementing policies and programs to reduce rainwater (i.e. stormwater). Lakehead has implemented stormwater management techniques to prevent pollutants from entering local water bodies.  This includes the use of rain gardens, permeable surfaces, and best practices based on the LEED framework in construction and landscaping to reduce runoff and filter contaminants in accordance with Lakehead’s Sustainable Building Policy (last updated in 2025).
  9. Environmental Monitoring: Lakehead University also conducts environmental monitoring through various research centres such as the Community Ecology and Energetics Lab, Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC) and Lakehead University Environmental Laboratory (LUEL). 
  10. Community Engagement and Research: Lakehead University is home to the InfoSuperior Research and Information Network and the Remedial Action Plan program.  This network serves as a platform to connect citizens, students, academics, industry and government agencies around Lake Superior. Through community engagement, it identifies and addresses environmental concerns along the north shore of Lakehead Superior.  Lakehead University is also the network lead in the Lake Superior Living Labs Network (LSLLN), a collaborative platform that facilitates partnerships between academic institutions, government and community groups. This network is dedicated to safeguarding the Lake Superior watershed, covering aspects related to water, land, food, climate, and energy. 

Lakehead University continues to advance its plans to minimize physical, chemical and biological alterations of related aquatic ecosystems that encompass research, education, monitoring, operations and policies, collaboration and public engagement. 

14.5.2 Monitoring the health of aquatic ecosystems

Does your university as a body monitor the health of aquatic ecosystems?

Lakehead University actively monitors the health of aquatic ecosystems through dedicated labs, faculty research, and partnerships with government and Indigenous organizations. By assessing biodiversity, chemical integrity, and ecological function in lakes and rivers across Northern Ontario, Lakehead University positions itself at the forefront of research, contributing vital knowledge to the protection and sustainable management of freshwater resources. Research activities in 2023-24 include:

  1. Community Ecology and Energetics Lab: Dr. Michael Rennie, Canada Research Chair of Freshwater Ecology and Fisheries, oversees whole-lake experiments, lab studies and archival data sets to investigate how lakes and fish populations respond to ecosystem changes such as climate warming, invasive species and contaminants.  In 2023–24, projects focused on fish responses to warming waters, zebra mussel spread, and mercury bioaccumulation. Additionally, Dr. Rennie’s research uses archival and real-time fish population data to detect changes in aquatic food webs.
  2. Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC): This research centre specializes in regulatory testing, monitoring the effect of effluents on aquatic organisms from industrial-related discharges in Northwestern Ontario. This lab invented a test using rainbow trout and water fleas to monitor environmental discharges across Canada. The ATRC serves industry clients across the North Shore, contributing to the protection and monitoring of aquatic ecosystems.  In 2023-24, the Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre conducted over 50 regulatory water quality tests using rainbow trout and Daphnia magna (water fleas).  These tests evaluate sub-lethal and lethal effects of industrial discharges on aquatic organisms. This work is conducted for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act standards.

 Lakehead University remains dedicated to the ongoing assessment, monitoring and preservation of the health of aquatic ecosystems in the regions we serve.

14.5.3 Programs towards good aquatic stewardship practices

Does your university as a body develop and support programs and incentives that encourage and maintain good aquatic stewardship practices?

Lakehead University promotes and sustains good aquatic stewardship practices through ongoing programs and initiatives. With campuses located on Lake Superior (Thunder Bay) and Lake Simcoe (Orillia), Lakehead is uniquely positioned to contribute to the protection of these critical aquatic ecosystems. In 2023-24, Lakehead University supported the following aquatic stewardship initiatives:

  1. InfoSuperior Research and Information Network: Lakehead University is home to the InfoSuperior Research and Information Network and the Remedial Action Plan program.  This network serves as a platform to connect citizens, students, academics, industry and government agencies around Lake Superior. Through community engagement, it identifies and addresses environmental concerns along the north shore of Lakehead Superior. 
  2. Water Resource Science Program: Lakehead University offers a 4-year comprehensive Water Resource Science degree program which focuses on water resource management, water conservation, water quality analysis and sustainable aquatic stewardship practices.   This program is training the next generation of water management and stewardship professionals contributing to the sustainability and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
  3. Lakehead University Environmental Laboratory (LUEL): The LUEL provides essential chemical analysis services for soils, foliage, water and wastewater.  Through teaching and research, LUEL has developed partnerships to conduct land-field investigations related to water quality, wetlands and environmental monitoring.
  4. Cigarette Recycling: All designated smoking areas on Lakehead University's Thunder Bay campus are outfitted with cigarette recycling stations.  This aquatic stewardship practice keeps cigarette butts from entering aquatic ecosystems.

14.5.4 Collaboration for shared aquatic ecosystems

Does your university as a body collaborate with the local community, e.g. through partnerships, in efforts to maintain shared aquatic ecosystems?

Lakehead University actively collaborates with local community partners to jointly work towards the preservation of shared aquatic ecosystems. Our efforts encompass comprehensive research, conservation strategies and community outreach.

The Thunder Bay Remedial Action Plan program is facilitated by Lakehead University under the supervision and guidance of Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. Through community engagement and action, the remedial action plan deals with environmental impairments in Areas of Concern on the Great Lakes, including chemical, physical, and biological degradation resulting in pollution and impacts to habitat.

Lakehead University also collaborated with various community partners in 2023 - 2024 to advance maintenance of shared aquatic ecosystems, including:

14.5.4 Collaboration for shared aquatic ecosystems

Does your university as a body have implemented a watershed management strategy based on location specific diversity of aquatic species?

Lakehead University has made substantial progress in watershed management by safeguarding diverse aquatic species. Through interdisciplinary research and collaborative partnerships, the university has developed comprehensive strategies that address the complex challenges facing aquatic ecosystems.

The Lake Superior Living Labs Network (LSLLN) serves as a platform to connect academics and community groups to develop new partnerships and collaborative initiatives across the Lake Superior watershed.

In 2023–24, Through the Thunder Bay Remedial Action Plan program, Lakehead University advanced watershed management and aquatic ecosystem stewardship by undertaking targeted initiatives to monitor and protect native aquatic species, reduce pollutant levels in designated Areas of Concerns and restore fish spawning habitats.

Together, these initiatives demonstrate Lakehead University’s strategic approach to watershed management, rooted in the protection of location-specific aquatic species diversity.