Third 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 59 (Eutrophic) and was determined using Secchi data. For a Shallow Lowland lake, this is considered Good. Shallow Lowland lakes do not stratify, or form separate layers of water, during the summer months and have watersheds greater than 4 square miles in area.

Third Lake has been monitored by volunteers since 2005. 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.