Article

The Peace-Athabasca Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Alberta, faces threats from hydroelectric dams, oilsands mining, and climate change. The Mikisew Cree First Nation petitioned for its designation as a site in danger.

A seven-year research program launched in 2015 focuses on monitoring freshwater availability and contaminants using water isotope tracers. Findings show no increased vanadium concentrations in Delta lakes from mining. New legislation may allow treated wastewater releases, with monitoring to inform policy decisions.