The relationship between winter lake cover, radiation receipts and the oxygen deficit in temperate lakes

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Abstract
The composition, timing and duration of winter lake cover are shown to produce significant spatial and temporal variations in the radiation received at the surface of the water column, and are linked to the timing and rate of oxygen depletion of a temperate lake. In particular, the first snowfall to accumulate on the ice cover reduces radiation input to nearly zero and coincides with the initiation of the linear phase of oxygen depletion. Ablation of the snow cover in spring results in increased radiation receipts and oxygen levels. A simple model shows that the conversion of snow to white ice, which normally occurs during the midwinter period, increases radiation receipts and oxygen levels. Manipulation of the cover by artificially induced slushing is suggested as a management technique in the control of winter oxygen deficits.

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