Stream Flow Monitoring: Tracking What Enters the Lake
Streams are one of the main pathways for nutrients, sediments, and pollutants to reach Seneca Lake. Monitoring how much water flows from these streams—and what’s in it—helps us understand the lake’s health and identify sources of pollution.
How We Measure Stream Flow
Through a partnership with Dr. Stephen Shaw, a hydrology expert from SUNY ESF, we monitor the daily volume of water entering the lake from key tributaries.
Our approach combines:
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Manual field measurements of stream depth and water velocity
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Automated pressure sensors that record stream height every hour
These measurements are used to calculate how many gallons of water are flowing into the lake each day.
Currently, seven streams are equipped with pressure sensors, with plans to expand to ten total monitoring sites across the watershed.
From Water to Nutrients: The Next Step
Volume alone doesn’t tell the full story. To understand the impact on lake water quality, we also:
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Collect stream water samples for nutrient analysis
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Use over a decade of historical data to track nutrient trends
This allows us to estimate the pounds of nutrients, like phosphorus, being carried into the lake.
Supporting Phosphorus Reduction Goals
Phosphorus is the leading contributor to harmful algal blooms (HABs) in Seneca Lake. The data from our stream flow program directly supports the Seneca-Keuka 9 Element Plan, which outlines strategies for reducing phosphorus and improving lake health.
By knowing how much phosphorus is entering the lake—and from where—we can:
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Measure progress toward reduction goals
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Target high-impact areas for conservation
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Strengthen grant applications and policy decisions
