Big Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Apache County, Arizona. Water quality is graded D based on 1 sampling years through 2025. Compared to the 10 other monitored lakes in Apache County, Big Lake ranks #5 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Arizona DNR, last sampled 2025-11-04. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.
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Swimming Safety
Swimming not recommended, poor water quality with high algae risk
Water Quality Grade: D, Poor
Moderate clarity, visible to about 6.7 ft. Phosphorus level: 76 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 58.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 6.7 ft | C |
| Phosphorus | 76 µg/L | D |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 58 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
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Fishing Big Lake
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #5 of 11 lakes in Apache County
Nearby Lakes in Apache County
Explore Big Lake across LakeGrade
More Arizona Lake Rankings
Other Grade D Lakes in Arizona
Eutrophic Lakes in Arizona
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: 2025-11-04
Monitoring stations: 1