Water Issues in Nova Scotia: Sedimentation

Sediment, or soil, erodes from the land, is transported along waterways, and deposits in lakes or oceans. This can occur naturally by water, wind, glaciers, animals, etc, but erosion resulting from humans activities such as clear-cutting, occurs much faster. This can result in the transportation of not only soil and organic matter but also toxic chemicals, and lead to decreased water depth for boats, reduced water supply, and effected fish and plant productivity. Sydney Harbour, NS, is one of the most contaminated sites in Canada –a result of municipal and industrial sedimentation carrying high levels of toxins and metals.