Bringing together a group of scientists renowned for their expertise in aquatic science and environmental management, this book explores the functioning of the Boreal Shield ecosystems. Focusing on the lake trout as the model and indicator of environmental change and management, the book analyzes the risks to and durability of this environment in relation to local, regional, and global human activity. By providing a clear summary describing the air/land/water linkages in aquatic ecosystems, it demonstrates how Boreal Shield waters have served as a crucible for environmental research into the impacts of water pollution, acid rain, climate change, sport fisheries, invasive species, and watershed disturbance.