Lake Index Monitoring

Lake Index Monitoring involves observing, measuring, and recording environmental data as well as collecting water samples. Lake Indix Monitoirng 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 Baseline Monitors and includes parameters such as air & water temperature, wind conditions, wildlife presence, Secchi depth, and an 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. Parameters such as, ammonia, nitrates, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, and total phosphorous are analyzed. Locations are sampled twice a month between April and October.