How Clean Is Big Creek Lake?
Big Creek Lake is algae-prone, with a higher bloom risk in warm months. It received a water quality grade of F (Algae-prone) based on EPA monitoring data. Water clarity (Secchi depth): 2.6 ft. Phosphorus: 80 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a (algae): 35.7 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 65.
Cleanliness Snapshot
| Metric | Big Creek Lake | Iowa avg |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Grade | F | D |
| Water Clarity (Secchi) | 2.6 ft | — |
| Phosphorus | 80 µg/L | <30 = clean |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 35.7 µg/L | <10 = clean |
| Trophic State Index | 65 | <50 = clean |
How does Big Creek Lake compare?
Big Creek Lake's grade of F falls below the Iowa state average of D. It ranks #9 of 12 lakes in Polk County by water quality score. Multi-year monitoring data shows water quality is improving based on 5 years of records.
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