Lakes are vital ecosystems that provide recreation, aesthetic beauty, and economic benefits to surrounding communities. However, when lakes start showing signs of stress, it’s a clear indicator that their current management strategy isn’t working. Failing to address these issues early can lead to long-term degradation, higher restoration costs, and the loss of the cherished Lake Lifestyle.
Here are five common signs that your lake needs a better management strategy:
If your lake experiences frequent outbreaks of green or blue-green scum, it’s a strong indicator of harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms not only make the water unsafe for swimming, fishing, and boating but also signal deeper issues such as excessive nutrient levels and poor oxygenation. Traditional biocide treatments may temporarily reduce the blooms, but without addressing the root causes, they will inevitably return.
A healthy lake supports a balanced aquatic ecosystem with thriving fish populations. If fish kills or declining catches become common, it’s often a sign of hypoxia (low oxygen levels) in the water column. Hypoxia is caused by excessive nutrient recycling and algal decay, both of which can disrupt the food web and make the lake uninhabitable for many species.
Excessive sediment accumulation on the lakebed reduces water depth and creates an environment ripe for nutrient recycling, which fuels invasive weed and excessive algal growth. If your lake is visibly shallower, has areas clogged with muck, invasive weeds or excessive algae it’s a sign that sediment management isn’t being addressed effectively.
Cloudy, discolored water can indicate high levels of suspended algae, sediment, or organic matter. Poor water quality affects recreational enjoyment, aesthetic value, and the lake’s ability to support aquatic life. It’s also an indicator that root causes, such as excessive nutrient loading, are not being effectively managed.
If community members and tourists are avoiding the lake due to unpleasant odors, visible scum, or unsafe conditions, it’s a sign that the lake’s health is declining. Reduced recreational use can lead to economic losses for local businesses and lower property values for lakeside homes.
The 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlights the need for proactive, science-based strategies to address the root causes of lake degradation. Reactive approaches, such as applying biocides or dredging without addressing nutrient sources, fail to deliver lasting results. Instead, communities need comprehensive solutions that tackle issues like hypoxia, nutrient recycling, and ecosystem imbalances.
Clean-Flo’s Lake Management ACTION Plans are designed to identify and address the root causes of these issues. Our strategies include:
By focusing on sustainable, data-driven solutions, Clean-Flo ensures that lakes can recover and thrive for future generations.
Don’t wait for these warning signs to worsen. Learn how proactive, science-based strategies can transform your lake and protect the Lake Lifestyle. Download our Lake Management ACTION Plan e-Book today and take the first step toward restoring your lake’s health.