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Secchi Depth Readings
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Secchi depth measurements
are an
indication of the clarity of water. They are taken using a weighted,
black and white quartered disk and a length of line to determine depth.
This is a simple measurement that over time gives an indication of
water quality trends in a pond, lake, or ocean.
I have available two Secchi disks with which I have used on and off
since
about 1996 to take measurements on Georges Pond. This is a fairly easy
measurement to make following some simple protocols. The Maine VLMP
(Volunteer Lakes Monitoring Program) offers training. Here is a link to
the Secchi sampling
protocol
The State of Maine and their MIDAS database also collected and stored
data from 1977 through 1999.
The MIDAS number for Georges Pond (spelled George's Pond in the
database) is 4406.
My recent data (1996-2009) and the MIDAS data are about the same. Look
at these two graphics: Recent Data
and MIDAS/Recent Data.
I will be adding the 2010 July 6 data (16.5 feet) soon.
Since 1994 Kent State
University has coordinated a program which
involves
measuring lake water quality nationwide using a visibility measurement
known as Secchi depth as an indicator. I'll put up a summary soon but
for
now for more information you can go to the Secchi Dip In website
. I have
submitted data to them in the past and have done so
again
this year.
Rocco, Rocco Jr, and
I each took a reading in August 2009. Our three readings were within
1.0 feet - not bad considering the boat was rocking and we had young
eyes and old. I will put past year’s readings here along
with
readings
from
Maine DEP shortly. I am told by old-timers that clarity was quite
remarkable
many years ago – if anyone has any information or data, I’d
like to
hear
about it as current data and MIDAS data (from late 70s) is only about
average for Maine lakes and ponds.
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