Lake Monitoring
The District currently monitors 15 lakes in the watershed: Diamond Lake, Elkhorn Lake, George Lake, Green Lake, Hubbard, Schulz & Wheeler Lakes, Lake Monongalia / Mill Pond, Long Lake, Nest Lake, and Tadd & Upper Lake. To evaluate lake health within the Middle Fork Crow River Watershed District (MFCRWD), we monitor four key water quality parameters: Total Phosphorus (TP), Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and Secchi disk transparency. Each of these indicators provides important insights into the ecological condition and recreational suitability of a waterbody. Surface-integrated samples (taken from the upper 6 feet of the water column) are used to provide this insight into the chemical condition of the water body and determine its suitability for fisheries and recreational use. They also become an important indicator of potential land use problems in the watershed. Lake samples are collected monthly or bimonthly from May through September and tested for TP, TSS, and Chlorophyll-a.
Total Phosphorus (TP) is a vital nutrient for aquatic plant growth and a natural component of healthy ecosystems. However, elevated phosphorus levels can lead to excessive algal growth, reduced oxygen levels, and impaired water quality. Managing phosphorus is critical to preventing harmful algal blooms and maintaining clear, clean water. Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) is a pigment found in algae which serves as a direct indicator of algal abundance. High chlorophyll-a concentrations often correlate with increased nutrient levels and reduced water clarity. Total Suspended Solids (TSS) measures the concentration of particles suspended in the water, such as silt, algae, and organic matter. High TSS levels can reduce water clarity, affect aquatic habitats, and interfere with recreational uses. Lastly, Secchi Disk Transparency is a simple yet effective method measures how deep light penetrates the water. Greater Secchi depths generally indicate clearer water and lower levels of suspended materials and algae.
All monitored waterbodies within the MFCRWD are evaluated against established water quality standards. For a lake to be considered healthy, these parameters must remain at or below set thresholds. The continued monitoring and analysis of these parameters help guide management efforts and protect the long-term health of George Lake and the watershed as a whole.
For futher information, click on the links below to view more water quality data:
Calhoun Lake
Diamond Lake
Elkhorn Lake
George Lake
Green Lake
Hubbard, Schulz & Wheeler Lakes
Lake Monongalia / Mill Pond
Long Lake
Nest Lake
Tadd & Upper Lake
