Human impact on the history of Lake Nômmejärv, NE Estonia: a geochemical and palaeobotanical study

A comprehensive geochemical and palaeobotanical study of the lacustrine sediments of Lake Nôm mejärv from industrialized NE Estonia establishes the links between the nature and intensity of human activities and their impacts on the state and structure of the lake ecosystem. In cores of sediment formed during the last century, five zones can be distinguished, each reflecting a pattern of human activity and characterized by a particular diatom community and sediment composition. Using reliable geochronological data it is possible to compare these zones with the known industrial load on the lake and its catchment area. The information obtained is of practical value for planning the rehabilitation of this severely impacted lake.