Water Quality in the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes Watershed
Primary Submission Contact
Brittany M Barkus
Faculty Sponsor
Jon Schoer
Faculty Sponsor Email Address
Jon.Schoer@valpo.edu
College
Arts and Sciences
Department/Program
Chemistry
Document Type
Poster Presentation
Date
Fall 10-30-2015
Abstract
The water quality in the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes watershed has been regularly monitored for the past decade. Eleven lakes and associated streams, ponds, and wetlands make up the watershed. Multiple tests were performed in the field including measurements of pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, chloride concentration, nitrate concentration, ammonium concentration, and clarity. Samples were collected and an assortment of laboratory tests were also performed including total and reactive phosphorus, biological oxygen demand (BOD), total coliforms and E. coli, and total suspended solids (TSS). Most of the parameters monitored have remained relatively constant in the watershed. One notable exception is that the total and reactive phosphorus levels for most of the lakes tests have generally decreased from their levels at the beginning of research in 2005. Water quality and clarity have also somewhat improved. These improvements are attributed to efforts made by various organizations, groups, and individuals near the watershed to better manage the lakes. By continuing to collaborate and interact with the community, we anticipate growing awareness of the factors affecting water quality in the watershed and that sound management practices will expand and lead to further improvements in the quality of the watershed.
Recommended Citation
Barkus, Brittany M.; Tomten, Hannah M.; Dilorenzo, Jordan; and Mamahit, Yugoviandi, "Water Quality in the Valparaiso Chain of Lakes Watershed" (2015). Fall Interdisciplinary Research Symposium. 36.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/fires/36
Additional Presentation Information
Wall Poster
