{"id":263,"date":"2026-05-21T17:20:31","date_gmt":"2026-05-21T17:20:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/test-uwsp-multi.pantheonsite.io\/center-for-watershed-science-and-education\/?page_id=263"},"modified":"2026-05-22T01:49:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-22T01:49:16","slug":"lake-and-river-monitoring","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.uwsp.edu\/center-for-watershed-science-and-education\/lake-and-river-monitoring\/","title":{"rendered":"Lake and River Monitoring"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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LAKE MONITORING<\/h2>

Our Lake Monitoring Program is for organizations or individuals interested in the water quality of their lakes. Since 1984, over 150 lakes have been involved in this program. \nWe are happy to work with lake groups to find the best sampling options.<\/p>

Lake Test Packages<\/a><\/div><\/div>
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Benefits of Lake Monitoring<\/h3>

Join lake monitoring to learn more about:<\/h4>
The present status of your lake, whether water quality is changing (this requires long-term monitoring), unusual abundance of algae and\/or aquatic plants, fish kills, and changes in water clarity<\/div>
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Spring and Fall Overturn Sampling<\/h3>

Sample once or twice per year, during spring overturn and\/or fall overturn. This timing ensures lake water is well-mixed.<\/h4>
In addition to water chemistry, we recommend Secchi disc (water clarity) readings, water level monitoring (changes in water level can affect lake quality), and oxygen and temperature readings, along with depth<\/div>
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Summer Sampling<\/h3>

Sample during the growing season.<\/h4>
In addition to water chemistry, we recommend Secchi disc (water clarity) readings, water level monitoring (changes in water level can affect lake quality), and oxygen and temperature readings, along with depth<\/div>
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How do I test my lake water?<\/h3>

Testing your lake is easy!<\/h4>
Simply contact us to determine testing options for your lake and receive your lake testing kit by mail (or pick-up your kit if you prefer). Bottles and sampling instructions are provided in your testing kit. Our lab performs the analyses, and you’ll receive a lake data summary report.<\/div>
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Your Lake Data Report<\/h3>
Your lake data report will include current and historical lake data which can reveal water quality variability and trends over time. Each lake analyte includes a summary explanation to help you interpret your results. One or two years of data are often not sufficient to characterize a lake, so ongoing monitoring is encouraged.\nThe database generated by this program may also be useful for graduate students, staff, and local or state professionals who are interested in lake water quality.\nIn order to produce your Lake Report, your data will be uploaded to the DNR statewide database Surface Water Integrated Monitoring Systems (SWIMS).<\/div>
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