Assessment of Aquatic Effects Due to Acid Deposition (Impact of Acid Rain and Deposition in Aquatic Biological Systems)

The vast body of information gnenerated by recent acid rain research must be synthesized into a coherent framework to be used for assessment and policy analysis. The napap assessments task group is directed toward integrating research results, focusing the research upon public policy concerns, and assessing the potential results of various measures to reduce acid deposition. Aquatic chemistry and impact data will be analyzed for an intensive CASE study of the Adirondack Mountains, NY, and for regional studies of the upper midwest, the blue ridge Province, and Pennsylv ania. The assessment will cover changes in the chemical status of surface waters, natural vs. Anthropogenic origins of acidification, important watershed characteristics in determining sensitivity to acidification, and the extent of low ph, low alkalinity lakes.