Lake & Pond Science
Natives vs. Invasive Aquatic Weeds | What’s the difference between Native Plants and Invasive Plants in my Lake?
When you look out over your shoreline, it is easy to assume that any green plant growing in the water is a "weed" that needs to be removed. However, there is a massive difference between the plants that belong in your lake and the ones that are trying to take it over....
The "Spring Clear-Water Phase": Why Your Pristine Lake Turns Cloudy Every Summer
Many lake owners notice a "magic" window in late spring where the water is incredibly clear, only to see it turn murky by July. This isn't random; it’s a biological cycle called the "Clear-Water Phase." In spring, tiny organisms called daphnia (water fleas) go on a feeding frenzy, eating up all the algae....
Tea-Stained Lakes: The Surprising Reason Northern Waters Turn Dark Brown
If your favorite northern lake looks like a giant vat of brewed tea, you aren't looking at pollution or dirt. This color comes from Tannins, which are natural organic compounds that leach out of fallen leaves, pine needles, and peat moss in the surrounding forest....
Murky vs. Polluted: Why a "Dirty" Looking Lake Might Actually Be Healthy
Many people assume that if they can't see their toes in three feet of water, the lake must be polluted. This is a myth. Murkiness, or Turbidity, is often caused by natural factors like suspended silt, tannins, or healthy populations of microscopic life...
Why Your Lake Looks Clearer After a Storm (Sometimes!)
Ever noticed your favorite lake looking surprisingly pristine after a good downpour? It might seem counterintuitive, as storms often churn things up, but there are several fascinating reasons why your lake can appear clearer following certain weather events....
Why Is the Water Clearer on One Side of My Lake Than the Other?
It can be confusing to look across the water and see your neighbor’s shoreline looking crystal clear while your dock is surrounded by cloudy water or floating debris. This imbalance isn't usually due to someone being "cleaner" than the other; it is a result of the lake’s natural physics....