As we move onto a new arc of episodes focusing on the small picture (a deeper dive on some important paleolimnological indicators) we'll begin by exploring why pollen counts!

We complete our current arc with the most topical of topics: climate change. We discuss why we should care, how paleo can contribute to this discussion, and if there is cause to be hopeful.

Recently the 30th anniversary of a critical treaty on acid rain was celebrated, and in this episode we explore the legacy of acidification, whether the problem is truly "solved", and the role of paleolimnology in that discussion.

We discuss resource extraction, with a few well-known Canadian examples, and how paleolimnology can play an important role in understanding ecosystem changes.

We are joined by a special guest host, Dr. Liz Favot from the Federation of Ontario Cottagers Association, to discuss an important and topical feature of lakes, Cyanobacteria blooms.

One full varve has been deposited since we officially launched the show. So we thought it a good time to reflect on what we've accomplished so far and what we hope to do over the next year.

Today we discuss how paleolimnology can track biovectors with Matthew Duda. Matthew is a PhD candidate at Queen's University and his work studying the dynamics of the world's largest colony of Leach’s Storm-petrel (Hydrobates leucorhous) has led to multiple high profile publications and he is one of the recipients of this years Rob Peters Award from the Society of Canadian Limnologists.

Today on Topical Paleolimnology we discuss formally recognizing the Anthropocene ("Age of Humans")as a new geological age to the history of the Earth, and the role lake sediments may play in that formal designation.

A new Arc on Topical Paleolimnology shifts our focus back to the present, and current environmental questions that are being addressed using sediment archives. We begin with road salt and the widespread impact the de-icing of roads is having on freshwater systems.

We conclude our History of Paleolimnology arc by talking to John Smol, Canada Research Chair in Environmental Change at Queen's University, about his perspectives on the growth of paleolimnology over the past four decades, including his role as founding editor of the Journal of Paleolimnology, and former chair of the IPA.