Lake water quality

Water quality is a good indicator for the ecological integrity of a lake and its ability to provide healthy habitats for flora and fauna. Two of the lakes in Elk Island National Park are monitored for water quality. Astotin Lake is monitored due to high usage by visitors, and Oster Lake is monitored due to historical sampling regime, and its relative large size and depth within Elk Island National Park.

Water quality is tested once a month by obtaining water samples from specific sites on Astotin Lake and Oster Lake. Some of the characteristics tested include pH, abundance of bacteria, and even the ability to conduct electricity. For the past five years Astotin and Oster Lakes have both consistently had high water quality results.