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Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program
Missouri lakes face a number of nonpoint source pollution threats. Erosion associated with farming and development brings nutrient rich soil material into lakes. Nutrient inputs can also come from excessive application of fertilizers in the watershed. Runoff containing animal waste and leachate from improperly operating septic systems can also add nutrients to lakes. Soil particles and nutrients can greatly impact a lake. Decreases in water clarity, loss of aesthetic beauty, filling in of lake bottom, and impairment of the aquatic habitats are some of the consequences of nonpoint source pollution.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program uses citizen volunteer helpers to collect lake water samples and water quality data from Missouri lakes. This program uses data collection as a way to involve citizens in the stewardship of local lakes.
Volunteers are provided with all of the necessary equipment and training needed to collect, process and store water samples. The sample season runs from April through September with collections occurring every three weeks for a total of eight samples each year. Volunteers measure surface water temperature, take a Secchi disk transparency reading and make a visual assessment while on the lake. Water samples are processed for total nitrogen, total phosphorus, algal chlorophyll (measure of algal biomass), and in some lakes, inorganic suspended solids. All samples are analyzed at the University of Missouri-Columbia. After all analyses are completed the data are compiled and reported to the regulatory agencies. The LMVP staff uses the data to write an annual data report.
OBJECTIVES
1. Determine the current water quality of Missouri lakes;
2. Monitor for changes in water quality; and
3. Educate the public about lake ecology and water quality issues.
PRODUCTS
The annual data report is published each spring. The first section of the report contains educational information on lake ecology and how the parameters measured by the program relate to lake health. Other information in the report includes results from the previous sample season, investigations of trends in water quality, comparisons of the lakes in the program and copies of past issues of the newsletter. The annual report is given to all volunteers, as well as interested agency personnel and citizens.
The program also publishes a newsletter, The Water Line. Three issues of the newsletter are sent out each year. The focus of the newsletter is to keep readers informed about program, announce up-coming events, and educate readers about water quality issues and lake ecology. The LMVP also has an informational brochure that gives the reader a brief description of the program and how to contact LMVP staff for more information on the program.
PROJECT SPONSOR
University of Missouri Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences
COOPERATIVE AGENCIES
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Missouri Department of Conservation, Jackson County Parks and Recreation Department, Ameren U. E., Cities of Weatherby Lake, Lake Waukomis, Lake St. Louis, Lake Winnebago and Crystal Lake.
CONTACT
302 A.B. Natural Resources Bldg.
Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211
James R. Jones
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