What is the water quality grade for Sheep Creek Lake?

Sheep Creek Lake in Elko County, Nevada received a water quality grade of C (Fair). Water clarity: 6.2 ft visibility. Phosphorus: 83 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a (algae): 4.2 µg/L.

Is Sheep Creek Lake safe to swim in?

Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality. Sheep Creek Lake has an overall water quality grade of C. Algae concentration (chlorophyll-a) is 4.2 µg/L. Always check local health department advisories before swimming.

Elko County, Nevada

Sheep Creek Lake

Grade CFair · 6.2 ft clarity

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Eutrophic

Sheep Creek Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Elko County, Nevada. Water quality is graded C based on 2 sampling years through 2023. Compared to the 17 other monitored lakes in Elko County, Sheep Creek Lake ranks #6 for water quality.

Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Nevada DNR, last sampled 2023-09-06. Grade methodology: LakeGrade methodology.

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Swimming Safety

Generally safe for swimming, moderate water quality

Water Quality Grade: C, Fair

Murky, only visible to about 6.2 ft. Phosphorus level: 83 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 4.2 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 54.

Metric	Value	Grade
Water Clarity (Secchi Depth)	6.2 ft	C
Phosphorus	83 µg/L	D
Chlorophyll-a (Algae)	4.2 µg/L	B
Trophic State Index (TSI)	54	Eutrophic

High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity

Where to stay near Sheep Creek Lake

Compare lakeside cabins, hotels, and vacation rentals near Sheep Creek Lake in Elko County, Nevada — live availability and prices for your trip. Switch the map to Satellite to see the lake and how close each stay is to the water.

Top-rated places to stay near Sheep Creek Lake