As a member of the New York State Federation of Lake Associations (NYSFOLA), Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is eligible to participate in the Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP). Participation in the CSLAP program provides critical information for making management decisions and the data collected supplies NYS with seasonal and long term data patterns.

Trained volunteers collect biweekly water quality data using standard methods to evaluate nutrient enrichment, aquatic weed and algae growth, and recreational quality of the lake. Samples from multiple deep and shallow lake locations are collected for key water quality indices from June through September. Some of the data points collected are:

Lake Perception

Water Temperature

Water Clarity and Color

Conductivity and pH

Phosphorus and Nitrogen

Chlorophyll and Calcium

Harmful Algal Blooms

Invasive Species

Water samples are sent to the Upstate Fresh Water Institute in Syracuse, NY for analyses. The lab results and other lake measurements are forwarded to NYSFOLA and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Each participating lake receives a report highlighting the year’s sampling results. In addition, results are stored electronically to allow for comparison of historical data and current conditions.