Temporal Fluctuations in Carbonate System Variables of Lake Superior Tributaries

Abstract

This is supplemental data that was used in in the Thesis titled "Temporal Fluctuations in Carbonate System Variables of Lake Superior Tributaries." Northeastern Minnesota, like other regions, has exhibited recent climate change effects; predicted changes over the next century include longer dry periods, less snow accumulation, and more large rain and snow events. Carbonate system variables including pH, total inorganic carbon (TIC) concentrations, and total alkalinity (TA) are all highly dependent on and have feedbacks with these climate factors. These variables can also influence the quality of life for various species, such as trout, which rely on many streams along the north shore of Lake Superior for spawning habitats. Therefore, studying the current conditions of waterbodies in northeastern Minnesota is crucial for setting a baseline to estimate and predict the potential ramifications of regional climate change. Amity Creek, Tischer Creek, and the St. Louis River are three tributaries of Lake Superior varying in watershed size and overall length. This study investigated how pH, TA, and TIC of these tributaries are affected by seasonality, stormflow, and diurnal conditions, as well as their inter-annual variability based on available data.