Evaluate the function of constructed wetlands in forest regions

• A couple of wetlands, based on principles that we created at the first Hola Lake project, have been constructed during the past two years. We will evaluate the function of these, and a couple of other wetlands in some selected forest areas, by measuring physical and chemical parameters. The main focus of this study is to evaluate if shallow wetlands in forest areas are efficient in decreasing the water colour.

Evaluate biochar as a method for increasing pH

• In an earlier Leader project, we have found that the addition of biochar increase pH in acidified running water. In this project, we will evaluate biochar as a method for increasing pH in an acidified forest area in the vicinity of a river. Apart from pH, various relevant physical and chemical parameters will be measured.

Map the changes in the land use in the catchment of Lake Immeln

• We will investigate and map the land use changes that have occurred in the catchment of Lake Immeln during the past decades. The purpose of this investigation is to understand the causes of the increasing levels of water colour in Lake Immeln. We cannot prevent the process of brownification of lakes until we have understood what land use changes that have caused the transport of brown compounds to the waters.

Construct an experimental facility in order to study the effect of brown water on sediment and micro algae

• In the last Hola Lake project we mapped the historical changes of brownification of Lake Immeln and discovered that an increase in the occurrence of cyanobacteria occurred in parallel with the increased water colour. In order to understand the relationship between brown water and cyanobacteria development, we will construct an experimental facility in order to study the effect of brown water on sediment and cyanobacteria.

Construct a digital measuring station that vertically will register the levels of oxygen and temperature

• Decreased levels of oxygen in the bottom water is one effect of brownification. Since the oxygen level in the bottom water is crucial for fish and bottom-feeding animals, its is important to monitor the oxygen level regularly. In order to get a continuous check of the oxygen levels and the temperature in Lake Immeln, we will construct a digital measuring station that vertically will register the levels of oxygen and temperature.

International cooperation and networking for finding and sharing the best practices and knowhow in the management of lakes in forest regions

• Osby municipality will organize a workshop with the issue of external loading and sediment in focus. The workshop will take place close to Lake Immeln. Moreover, we will participate in workshops organized by other project partners for exchanging ideas, experiences and knowledge in themes related to lake restoration.