Lawrence Lake

Lawrence Lake carries a solid B grade — strong on most parameters, with measurements that hold up well across the summer season. The two scored sub-grades — clarity and phosphorus — track close together, so neither one is dragging the average down.

A TSI in the eutrophic range signals a lake doing what nutrient-loaded waters do — supporting an active algal community at the cost of clear water. Lawrence Lake is a shallow lake at 14 ft maximum depth, which means it warms quickly, mixes constantly, and amplifies nutrient inputs. Lawrence Lake covers 217 acres alongside partial shoreline records — a mid-sized water that supports a working fishery without being so large that conditions diverge between basins. Within Marquette County's 13 graded lakes, Lawrence Lake ranks 7 — below the local median, though not at the bottom.

Eurasian watermilfoil is established at Lawrence Lake, which can dampen recreational access and pressure the native plant community. Walleye are documented at Lawrence Lake, one of 4 fish species on record for the lake. The grade is based on limited monitoring — fewer than three independent measurement years contribute, so future updates may shift the letter.