Lake Assessment Program - Big Birch Lake

A trend analysis of transparency data, collected through the Citizen Lake Monitoring Program, indicated a decline in water quality in Big Birch Lake over a sixteen year period. (MPCA, 1986). Numerous complaints were received by MPCA from residents on the lake - noting a recent degradation in water quality. In view of these observations it was proposed that the lake association apply for inclusion in the 1987 Lake Assessment Program (LAP). This program is designed to assist lake associations, municipalities, and other local organizations in the collection of baseline lake water quality data for the purpose of assessing the current trophic status of their lake. The objectives of LAP are to determine the lake water quality problems, identify potential source(s) of the problems, and recommend possible solutions so the local management organization can better protect and manage their valuable lake resource. The study characterizes the lake's condition and provides basic information regarding the interaction of the lake and its watershed. The general work plan for LAP includes cooperative lake sampling by MPCA staff and the Lake Association, participation in the Citizen Lake Monitoring Program (CLMP), examination of land use and drainage patterns in the watershed of the lake and an assessment of the data collected.