June 2017 Newsletter: Ballston Lake Sampling- Dave Pierce

Ballston Lake Water Quality Report May 12, 2017 David Pierce

The results of the 2016 CSLAP water testing program summary:
1. Water clarity was better in 2016 than 2015
2. Clearest water was in the spring. As the season progresses the lake heats up and it becomes more turbidand less clear due to algae production.
3. Algae levels were less in 2016 than 2015
4. Zebra mussels increased in 2016.
5. Water temperature was higher in 2016.
6. pH level in the lake is an acceptable range of 6.5 -7.5.
7. Water chestnut levels decreased in 2016.
8. DEC recommendations, “Individual stewardship activities such as pumping your septic system, growing a buffer of native plants next to the water bodies, and reducing erosion from shoreline properties and runoff into the lake will help to improve lake health by reducing nutrient ( phosphorous) and sediment loading to the lake. Visiting boats should be inspected to reduce the risk of NEW invasive species and continued monitoring for invasive species is warranted. Continued algae bloom education and monitoring is recommended. Shoreline blooms should be avoided.