Science and Nature Speaker Series

It is starting to look like spring outside—the snow is melting, and the rain is washing all the dirty road salt residues away. Do you ever wonder where all the road salt goes when the snow melts?

Find out on March 18, 7 p.m. at the Cornwall Public Library. The Science and Nature Speaker Series presents Dr. Michael Twiss, from the Great Rivers Centre at Clarkson University. His talk, “The effect of road salt on Adirondack Mountain lakes” will address the effects of winter runoff and road salt on aquatic ecosystems. “Road salt is a common feature of winter in Eastern North America and our public transportation relies heavily on its use,” Twiss states. “We all know that road salt increases road safety. Unfortunately, this common chemical can and does have adverse effects on the aquatic and terrestrial environment.” The presentation will describe a two-year project that focused on the Cascade Lakes, near Lake Placid, New York. Public concern stimulated this research, and the project, funded by the New York State Department of Transportation and carried out by Clarkson University, provides insight into the impact of using road salt on our environment.

The Science and Nature Speaker Series is hosted by the St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences and the Cornwall Public Library. Initiated with start-up funds from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Speaker Series is now funded entirely by sponsorships and community donations. Please join us at the Cornwall Public Library on March 18, at 7 pm.

Back by popular demand, Mike Runtz, from Carleton University, will be the next speaker on Earth Day, April 22. Admission for all Speaker Series events is free; however, space is limited. To reserve your spot, please call the River Institute at 613-936-6620.