Little Mud Lake

The LakeGrade rubric puts Little Mud Lake at a C: clarity at 5.9 ft, 28 µg/L of phosphorus, and a TSI of 52 signal an intermediate trophic state. Secchi readings are the weakest of the three parameters, suggesting suspended sediment or algal biomass dominates the optical signal.

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. Little Mud Lake reaches 42 ft at its deepest point — typical for Minnesota mid-sized lakes, with seasonal stratification but limited cold-water refuge. Little Mud Lake is small — 37 acres alongside 1.2 miles of shoreline — which makes it sensitive to even modest changes in watershed runoff or recreational pressure. Among the 23 graded lakes in Meeker County, Little Mud Lake sits at rank 7, above the county median.

Eurasian watermilfoil is established at Little Mud Lake, which can dampen recreational access and pressure the native plant community. The fishery is bass-led, with 8 documented species across the lake's records. A documented public access point at Little Mud Lake makes the lake usable for shore fishing, paddle craft, and trailered boats. The grade is based on limited monitoring — fewer than three independent measurement years contribute, so future updates may shift the letter.