South Bay Lake is a productive, nutrient-rich eutrophic lake in Orleans County, Vermont. Water quality is graded C based on 3 sampling years through 2025. Compared to the 29 other monitored lakes in Orleans County, South Bay Lake ranks #28 for water quality.
Source: EPA Water Quality Portal sampling records, Vermont DNR, last sampled 2025-10-06. 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 4.4 ft. Phosphorus level: 22.7 µg/L. Chlorophyll-a: 6.1 µg/L. Trophic State Index: 51.
| Metric | Value | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Water Clarity (Secchi Depth) | 4.4 ft | D |
| Phosphorus | 22.7 µg/L | B |
| Chlorophyll-a (Algae) | 6.1 µg/L | B |
| Trophic State Index (TSI) | 51 | Eutrophic |
High nutrients, frequent algae, reduced clarity
Where to stay near South Bay Lake
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Fishing South Bay Lake
Location
County Ranking
Ranked #28 of 30 lakes in Orleans County
Cleaner Lakes Within 30 Miles
South Bay Lake holds Grade C. 5 nearby lakes hold higher grades.
- ASeymour LakeOrleans County · 10.8 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ALake SalemOrleans County · 5.1 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- ALake DerbyOrleans County · 8.7 mi · Two grade letters higher (C → A)
- BClyde PondOrleans County · 2.1 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
- BLake MemphremagogOrleans County · 4.1 mi · Higher grade (C → B)
Nearby Lakes in Orleans County
Explore South Bay Lake across LakeGrade
More Vermont Lake Rankings
Other Grade C Lakes in Vermont
Eutrophic Lakes in Vermont
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: 2025-10-06
Monitoring stations: 1