The water quality of Lake Eden is monitored by both Vermont Department of Conservation (DEC) staff and Lay Monitoring Program (LMP) volunteers supported by a partnership through the DEC and UVM Lake Champlain Sea Grant.  The Vermont Lay Monitoring Program (LMP) trains and equips volunteers (or Lay Monitors) to conduct periodic lake water quality sampling from their boat using quality-assured methods.  Since the program's inception in 1979, the principal goals have remained the same: 

• Establish baseline water quality conditions in Vermont lakes during the summer recreation season.

• Track long-term nutrient trends and eutrophication in Vermont lakes and assess monitoring data for compliance with Vermont Water Quality Standards.

• Educate lakeshore homeowners and lake users about lake ecology and stewardship. 

In total, more than 100 inland lakes and 40 Lake Champlain stations have been monitored by this dedicated group of citizen scientists, with support from the Department of Environmental Conservation and Lake Champlain Sea Grant (since 2021).  We are grateful for their interest and commitment to better understanding the health of Vermont lakes and ponds.  See Vermont Lay Monitoring Program for more info.  

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On Lake Eden, observations of water depth, temperature and clarity using a Secchi disk for visibility readings, in addition to a water sample are collected every year between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The state requires a minimum of six observations/samples per year. The samples are sent to a Vermont State Lab in Montpelier and analyzed for total phosphorus (nutrient) concentration, Chlorophyll (algae and cyanobacteria) concentration and dissolved oxygen levels.  Annually, one of the environmental scientists from the VT DEC will accompany our Lay Monitor representative for one of the observations/sampling dates.  Additional testing may occur during this visit to aid in determining our lake’s overall health.

 

Observations of depth, temperature and visibility are taken in the 3 deepest areas of the lake and a water sample is taken in the deepest pool. The deepest pool is in front of the state boat launch. The second deepest pool is located off the “fish hook” on the southeast finger of the lake and the third deepest pool is in front of the dam.

 

Although there is no history of persistent algae blooms, Lake Eden will be monitored for algae and cyanobacteria growth beginning in 2023. The rising levels of phosphorus over the years is a concern.

 

 The Lay Monitor’s also report ice in/out dates and any invasive plant or animal species observed.

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The reports and analysis for Lake Eden are published annually and can be found here