The physical, hydrometeorological, and water chemistry conditions characteristic of botulism outbreaks at Whitewater Lake, Manitoba,Canada / Lynn Marie Greer

Whitewater lake is an important nesting ground for migratory waterfowl,however the lake is subject to seasonal events that result in large scale avian mortality. Mortality among the waterfowl species at this lake is related to Clostridium botulinum, Type C. Due to physical conditions, the disease is spread quickly through the nesting area. In addition, chemical constituents, water quality, and meteorological conditions may promote botulism bacterial growth and outbreaks. The 930-km2 drainage basin that is tributary to Whitewater Lake is located in the center of an agricultural region in southwestern Manitoba. The lake is large but shallow with a depth ranging from 1-3 meters during most years; some years the lake is dry. Nutrient loading can be attributed to point source and non-point source loading from both human and natural sources. Human induced loading includes increased chemical and fertilizer application to agricultural land and the addition of livestock to areas. Natural load