Clear Water

[straw hat]

We have had the discussion before about the increase nitrogen and phosphorus in Stockton and the subsequent increase in filamentous algae. And many have noted the clarity of the water this year and past. I would just like to add a note about the contribution of this algae to water clarity. The billons of microscopic strands of algae act to entrap sediment and microscopic plants and animals. One look at a sample under the microscope would astound you as to the sand grains, small pieces of debri etc that is captured. Now this clearing of the water is of a benefit to the algae. The clearer the water the farther the light can penetrate and the deeper the algae can spread. It helps the success of the species. As the algae reaches the top it forms a dense layer that will shutdown the light until the mass begins to die (lowering oxygen levels around it) and then float free. This mat which can be the size of a golf ball to he size of a volkswagon will float with the current and can land in some new area to help spread the species. Water clarity in some eutrophic lakes can increase 20 to 30 feet or more when the algae really gets going.

Now add to this the jumping carp and the zebra mussel. Very efficient strainers of the water column. I amfraid it is just a matter of time. Clarity to depths of 40 or 50 ft? Only time will tell. It will be interesting.

[dprice]

hard for me to find 50 feet ?