Chain Lake

Water Quality

One measure of a lakes health is the trophic state, which relates to the amount of algae in the water. The average summer trophic state for the last 5 years was 54 (Eutrophic) and was determined using Secchi data. For a Deep Seepage lake, this is considered Fair. Deep Seepage lakes stratify, or form separate layers of water, during the summer months and have no inlet or outlet.

Chain Lake was monitored by volunteers between 1986 and 2021. Volunteers monitor water clarity with a black and white Secchi disk. Volunteers are the source of the majority of Wisconsin's lake water quality data, and their dedication is greatly appreciated. Reports and graphs featuring data collected by volunteers, DNR staff and others can be viewed below.

Water Quality Reports and Graphs

Station Name	Station ID	Map	Max Year	Reports
Chain Lake - Deep Hole	553072	Map	2021	Details
Chain Lake - Ferndale Area	10049493	Map	2023	Details
Island Chain of Lakes- Highway 40	10052938	Map	2019	Details