Archived Data

For lake index site monitoring, volunteers observe, measure, and record environmental data as well as collect water samples. Lake index site monitoring is done away from the shoreline, and therefore requires the use of a boat, canoe, or kayak. Environmental data that is recorded is the same as those recorded by screening and baseline monitors and include parameters such as air/water temperature, wind conditions, wildlife present, Secchi disk depth, and overall perception of the condition of the water body. During each sampling event, two water samples are collected and sent to the State Health Lab in Pierre for analysis. There, parameters such as, Ammonia, Nitrates, TKN, and total Phosphorous are determined. Locations are sampled twice a month between April and October.