Publication Summary

Arsenic was analyzed in three Palmer Lake sediment samples in an effort to provide a preliminary indication of the level of contamination. The lake had been identified as a significant source of arsenic to the Similkameen River. Tailings particles from historical mining activity in British Columbia can enter the lake during periodic inflows from the Similkameen in the spring. Results showed arsenic concentrations of 20, 28, and 39 mg/Kg (dry weight) in the lake sediments. This level of sediment contamination has the potential to cause adverse biological effects in the lake, and the sediments may be acting as a chronic source of arsenic to the Similkameen River.