• In 2024, the Secchi and total phosphorus TSI value was in the eutrophic range, while the chlorophyll-a TSI value was in the mesotrophic range. Eutrophic lakes (TSI >50) have less-clear water, with high nutrient concentrations and high algal growth.
• Nitrogen-to-phosphorus (N:P) ratios were periodically below 25, indicating times when the algal community was more likely to be dominated by cyanobacteria (which have the ability to produce toxins).
• No algal blooms were reported for toxin testing in 2024.
• Long-term trends suggest that water quality in Beaver Lake 1 has been improving over time, with decreasing nitrogen, chlorophyll-a, and deeper Secchi depths (clearer water).
This bathymetric map shows contour lines of equal depth, similar to a topographic map would for mountains and valleys. The red 'X' marks the location where water quality samples are taken.
This map shows the area of the watershed relative to the area of the lake. Generally speaking, the larger a watershed is relative to a lake, the greater the influence land use practices on lake water quality.
The average of these three TSI indicators during the growing season can be used
to place lakes in one of three broad categories:
<40 = oligotrophic (low productivity),
40 to 50 = mesotrophic (moderate productivity)
>50 = eutrophic (highly productive).
