Iowa DNR Water Quality Standards For Lakes

The Iowa DNR has proposed criteria for evaluating Iowa lakes used for swimming. The proposed standards measure the transparency of the water and recommend maintaining water clarity of a little more than 3 feet (1 meter) in at least 75 % of the measurements. A standard of maintaining chlorophyll-a levels not to exceed 25 ug/L in 75 % of the measurements taken is also being proposed. Both standards are based on measurements taken during the summer recreational months between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

These standards were initially proposed in January 2010 [click here for more information]

The standards will apply to 127 lakes in Iowa that have a maintained beach, appear on the list of Significant Public Owned Lakes or have a mean depth of more than 3 meters (9.9 feet).

A series of public meetings to gather input from citizens regarding proposed criteria are scheduled throughout the state between March 23 and 31. Written suggestions or comments on the proposed amendments are being accepted through May 15, 2011.

Caltha LLP provides expert consulting services to public and private sector clients nationwide to address water quality standards, wastewater permitting and assessing potential impacts of chemicals in the aquatic environment.

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