Queen’s is located on one of the greatest lakes in the world, but most students have little interaction with it during their time in Kingston. This interview with Professor David McDonald discusses why he developed this course: to introduce students to a range of historical and contemporary issues related to Lake Ontario, from the livelihoods of First Nations communities to fisheries, urban planning, sewage treatment and artistic engagement with the water. He highlights some of the experiential field trips in the course and discusses how local water issues are linked to global freshwater challenges, including safe sanitation, climate change and food security.
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