How Clean Is Rathbun Lake?
Rathbun Lake has fair water quality — typical of lakes with moderate nutrient enrichment. Its nutrient and algae readings come from EPA monitoring data. Water clarity (Secchi depth): 3 ft. Phosphorus: 48 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a (algae): 15.3 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 60.
Cleanliness Snapshot
| Metric | Rathbun Lake | Iowa avg |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi) | 3 ft | — |
| Phosphorus | 48 µg/L | <30 = clean |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 15.3 µg/L | <10 = clean |
| Trophic State Index | 60 | <50 = clean |
How does Rathbun Lake compare?
Rathbun Lake's readings match or beat the Iowa state average. It ranks #1 of 1 lakes in Appanoose County on nutrient and algae readings. Multi-year monitoring data shows water quality is declining based on 4 years of records.
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