Why testing matters
Clarity, algae, and weed growth are symptoms. Testing helps you identify the pressure behind the symptoms: oxygen stress, nutrient loading, and sediment-driven resuspension. That’s what lets you plan a response that lasts longer than a single cleanup.
What to measure
Core field measurements
- Visibility / clarity (consistent photos work).
- Dissolved oxygen (morning readings matter).
- Temperature profile (surface vs deeper zones).
- Turbidity (how easily sediment stays suspended).
Lab-style indicators
- Phosphorus (common bloom driver).
- Nitrogen (supports growth and bloom persistence).
- Chlorophyll-a (algae intensity indicator).
- pH / alkalinity (helps interpret response).
When to test
- Baseline: early season, before peak growth.
- After storms: when inflows and sediment spikes matter.
- During peak heat: when oxygen stress and algae risk rise.
Turn results into actions
- Identify the driver: nutrients, oxygen, resuspension, or access/vegetation.
- Pick the lowest-friction intervention that moves the driver.
- Schedule follow-up so improvements hold.
If sediment is the driver, pair results with sediment removal planning.
Response playbooks
If clarity drops fast
- Inspect inlets and corners for fresh sediment accumulation.
- Confirm whether a storm event triggered turbidity.
- Scope whether targeted dredging would reduce repeat events.
If algae risk rises
- Prioritize safety and monitoring; don’t improvise around unknown blooms.
- Use the toxic algae guide to plan next steps.