Alto Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Lincoln County, New Mexico. Water quality is graded C based on 2 sampling years through 2024. Compared to the 4 other monitored lakes in Lincoln County, Alto Lake ranks #3 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, New Mexico DNR, last sampled 2024-09-26. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality
Water Quality Grade: C, Fair
Moderate clarity, visible to about 8.9 ft. Phosphorus level: 161.5 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 4 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 56.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 8.9 ft | B |
| Phosphorus | 161.5 µg/L | F |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 4 µg/L | B |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 56 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near Alto Lake
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Fishing Alto Lake
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #3 of 5 lakes in Lincoln County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Alto Lake holds Grade C. 3 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- BGrindstone Canyon Reservoir DeepLincoln County · 5.1 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
- BMescalero Lake DeepOtero County · 6.6 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
- BMescalero Lake ShallowOtero County · 6.8 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Lincoln County
Explore Alto Lake across LakeGrade
More New Mexico Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in New Mexico
Eutrophic Lakes in New Mexico
More records, surveys & data sources
Data Sources
Water quality data from the EPA Water Quality Portal
Grading methodology based on Metropolitan Council standards
Most recent sample: 2024-09-26
Monitoring stations: 1