Is Lower Prior Lake Safe for Swimming?
Lower Prior Lake in Scott County, Minnesota has a water quality grade of C (Fair). Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality. Water clarity: 10 ft visibility. Phosphorus: 27 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a (algae): 4.8 µg/L. Always check local health department advisories before swimming.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Grade | C (Fair) |
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 10 ft |
| Phosphorus | 27 μg/L |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 4.8 μg/L |
| Maximum Depth | 60 ft |
| Location | Scott County, Minnesota |
How does Lower Prior Lake compare?
With an overall water quality grade of C, Lower Prior Lake matches or beats the Minnesota state average of Grade C. It ranks #4 of 21 lakes in Scott County by water quality score.
Water clarity (Secchi depth) sits at 10 feet. That counts as exceptional clarity — sunlight penetrates deep, supporting submerged plants and limiting algae. Algae levels (chlorophyll-a) measure 4.8 µg/L — low and well within safe swimming guidelines.
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