Mercury in the Biogeochemical Cycle: Natural Environment and Hydroelectric Reservoirs of Northern Quebec (Canada)

This book presents an exhaustive overview of the biogeochemical cycling of mercury in hydroelectric reservoirs as well as in natural aquatic systems of the boreal forest region of northern Quebec (Canada). Presented in the form of 14 papers with an overall synthesis, it marks the conclusion of over 10 years of studies carried out by universities, governmental institutions and industries, using the latest and most appropriate sampling and analytical procedures. The results clearly show a threefold increase in atmospheric fluxes of Hg in remote areas of northern Quebec over the last century and, in the case of hydroelectric reservoirs, the critical role played by the extensive flooding of land in the temporary post-impoundment increase in mercury levels in aquatic organisms and fish-eating wildlife.