This is a report of baseline studies of aquatic environments in the Athabasca River. These studies were carried out at the request of Syncrude Canada Limited and were focused in the vicinity of Syncrude's Lease Number 17, which borders the west bank of the Athabasca River north of the town of Ft. McMurray, Alberta. The studies were designed to provide a basis for comparison with changing conditions ln the Athabasca River as the Syncrude development proceeds. The study consisted of three parts: 1) A general reconnaissance early in the study period including a survey of fish species, benthic invertebrates, periphyton (attached algae) and water quality. On the basis of this preliminary survey, permanent sampling stations were identified and particular environmental parameters selected for further study. 2) Detailed studies of selected environmental parameters. Data describing these parameters will form the baseline against which any future changes will be assessed. 3) A survey of the scientific literature relevant to various aspects of the study.