Herb Smith Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Harlan County, Kentucky. Water quality is graded D based on 1 sampling years through 2023.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Kentucky DNR, last sampled 2023-09-06. 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
No clarity data. Phosphorus level: 96 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 70.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | No data | |
| Phosphorus | 96 µg/L | D |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | No data | |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 70 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
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Location
County Ranking
Ranked #1 of 1 lakes in Harlan County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
Herb Smith Lake holds Grade D. One nearby lake has a higher grade.
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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: 2023-09-06
Monitoring stations: 1