George Lake
George Lake, encompassing a surface area of 223 acres and reaching a maximum depth of 32 feet, is a valued recreational resource known for its clear water and generally low algae levels throughout the open water season. Its good water clarity and overall water quality make it well-suited for swimming, boating, and other lake activities. Clarity monitoring of George Lake began in 1979, and additional water quality parameters have been consistently tracked since 2004. Based on these long-term monitoring efforts, most water quality indicators have remained within healthy ranges, reflecting a stable and resilient aquatic ecosystem.
George Lake continues to demonstrate exceptional water quality, consistently meeting Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) standards across all measured parameters. The lake’s Total Phosphorus (TP) levels show a promising downward trend, indicating stability in nutrient management and potential improvements. While Total Suspended Solids (TSS) remain within the standard, a slight upward trend suggests the need to locate runoff and erosion impacts closely. Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) levels fluctuate but remain within acceptable limits, emphasizing the importance of reducing nutrient loading and maintaining vegetation buffers. Secchi depth readings showcase excellent clarity and reduced turbidity, underscoring the lake’s strong overall health.
George Lake is categorized as moderately clear mesotrophic, meaning it exhibits lower-than-average nutrient enrichment and superior water quality. The surrounding land cover—including forests, wetlands, cultivated fields, and developed areas—plays a vital role in influencing the lake's condition. As water moves across the watershed, it carries sediments, nutrients, and pollutants that can affect overall water quality.
To sustain these positive trends, it is crucial for the community to remain proactive in conservation efforts. Continued monitoring, responsible land management, and public engagement will help ensure that George Lake remains a thriving ecosystem for future generations.
For futher information, click on the links below to view more water quality data: