In the summer of 2005 the O.F.A.H. will be working with York University to survey 100 lakes in the Muskoka region to develop the survey design for a 500 lake study to investigate the following:

• Predict the fluvial and human induced spread of spiny water flea and subsequent colonization success;
• Quantify the calcium and acid tolerance of spiny water flea for use as a model to assess it's probability of establishment in Canadian shield lakes; and
• Examine the regional spread, colonization success and direct and indirect impacts of spiny water flea on pelagic food webs of Canadian Shield lakes.

Current and new volunteers inhabiting the Muskoka region are encouraged to stay tuned to www.invadingspecies.com for news of how they can become involved, with this research project.