ADOPT-A-LAKE PROGRAM

What is Adopt-A-Lake?

Water Quality, along with Water Quantity is a top priority for Lake Lanier Association. Adopt-A-Lake is a hands-on, volunteer run program which the Lake Lanier Association sponsors in partnership with Georgia Lakes Society and Georgia Environmental Protection Division to monitor the quality of the water in Lake Lanier. It is our intention to monitor Lake Lanier’s makeup and share our findings for the greater good of a healthy Lake Lanier.

The Adopt-A-Lake Program teaches volunteer participants how to monitor water quality by taking samples from 30 testing stations on the lake. These locations are separated into 3 testing sections, based on the lake’s hydrology action. Volunteers take samples the first weekend of every month. Volunteers gain basic knowledge of watershed assessment and how to measure various parameters that aid in the quest for a healthy Lake Lanier.

What is being monitored?

The Lake Lanier Index is an evaluation of nutrients and clarity. Water samples are analyzed by American Proteins, Inc. laboratories in Cumming, Georgia for the presence of chlorophyll a. Chlorophyll a is an indicator of the levels of phosphate and nitrate in the water. Too much Chlorophyll A can lead to an increase in algae blooms. Excess phosphate and nitrate usually come from runoff and sewer overflows. Agricultural and residential fertilizer is often a culprit. Secchi readings are taken by lowering a weighted disk into the water and measuring the distance it can be seen which is a guage for clarity.

How can you help?

We welcome new volunteers to become a part of the Adopt-A-Lake program. Please email us at lakeinfo@lakelanier.org to find out more about this opportunity.