LEA visits Adams Pond twice a month in May through September. This year, the average chlorophyll concentration and the average total phosphorus concentration were below their long-term averages, while the average clarity reading was near the long-term average. The average deep-water phosphorus value was more than 10 ppb above average surface water phosphorus values, which indicates phosphorus recycling may be an issue. Long-term trend analysis indicates chlorophyll-a concentrations and total phosphorus concentrations were stable, while clarity readings are increasing. This year’s average
surface water temperature was higher than last year’s average surface water temperature. Oxygen depletion was observed at the deepest parts of the pond beginning in late May. Gloeotrichia echenulata colonies were not observed in 2024.
Adams Pond surface water chlorophyll (ppb), phosphorus (ppb), and Secchi depth (meters) data comparison. Colored areas represent the long-term range of values, from minimum to maximum. Area thickness indicates frequency of measurements at that value. Area thickness increases as more measurements are reported at that value. The vertical black line represents the long-term average value. The large red dot represents 2024’s average value. The small red dots represent individual readings taken in 2024.
Gloeotrichia echinulata (a type of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) commonly found in low-nutrient waters) can be seen with the naked eye. Gloeo density is reported as a value ranging from 0 – 6, based on the number of Gloeo colonies seen through a Secchi scope. Higher values indicate more Gloeo colonies. Gloeotrichia echenulata colonies were not observed in Adams Pond in 2024.
