Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
5.8 MEDIUM LAKES
(Surface Area 100-500 Acres)
Beaver
Blaine
Blanchard
Five
Foys
Glen
Holland
Lower Stillwater
Murphy
Rogers
Sophie
66
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Beaver Lake
Trophic Status: Oligo-mesotrophic
Surface Area: 144 acres
Maximum Depth: 96 feet (29.3 meters)
Beaver Lake has a catchment area of 2,043 acres composed of the Piegan group belt series (46%)
and alluvium (38%) (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
Beaver Lake is located in Flathead County northwest of Whitefish on the northern edge of Lion
Mountain. The lake’s elevation is 993 meters. Fish distribution records indicate a presence of brook
trout, flathead minnow, rainbow trout and kokanee. The lake has one motorized public access site on
the south side of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Beaver Lake was stratified during the summer sampling
dates, and has been within the avoidance threshold range for salmonids at depths of up to 7 meters
during July and August. Oxygen profiles show that the lake has been between avoidance and anoxic
thresholds for salmonids at depths greater than 10 meters. Anoxia has been observed at depths
greater than 15 meters. When anoxic conditions occur at the benthic interface an oxidation reduction
potential exists and nutrients stored in the sediment can be liberated back into the water column
given the right conditions. Depth profiles suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid habitation during
summer months is between 6-12 meters.
Beaver Lake often ranks highest among medium lakes for total phosphorus, total nitrogen and
chlorophyll (a).
Beaver Lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 39.9mg/L classifying it as a
high risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 82mg/L.
In 2011, Eurasian watermilfoil was discovered on Beaver Lake in mid-October. The relatively small
patch was found by DNRC near the boat ramp during a training retreat. This is the first lake in the
Flathead basin to have a positive DNA for EWM. A multi-agency workgroup was established and
addressed the issue by hiring a diver to evaluate the size of the infestation, and deploy bottom
barriers until the spring when the best management techniques were evaluated. In 2012, the bottom
barriers were removed, and a suction dredge was used to remove as much EWM as possible. Prior to
dredging, the Whitefish Lake Institute installed a sediment curtain near the outflow of Beaver Lake
to help prevent EWM fragments from entering Beaver Creek which flows into Whitefish Lake. In
2014 and 2015, only isolated plants were found and in 2015 a little more than a pound of EWM was
removed. WLI removes and reinstalls the curtain seasonally. Additionally, WLI maintains a
monitoring station on Beaver Creek as a part of their baseline monitoring program. In 2016, a few
individual plants were found under a submerged log.
Turbidity curtain on Beaver Lake. Photo
courtesy WLI.
67
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Beaver Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.43309 N, 114.421.32 W
50
ritical Thermal Maximum
40
Beaver Lake
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
30
90
0
0
-5
-5
-10
-10
-15
-15
8/17/1998
-20
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Beaver Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
60
70
90
-20
8/24/2001
8/29/2002
10/1/2010
7/28/2010
10/31/2011
8/15/2011
10/17/2012
7/4/2012
10/31/2013
7/15/2013
-25
80
-25
7/14/2014
10/17/2014
11/16/2015
8/25/2015
8/15/2016
Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
15
0
5
10
15
0
Avoidance
0
10
-5
-5
Hypoxic
-10
-10
-15
-15
8/7/1998
8/24/2001
8/29/2002
-20
7/30/2009
-20
7/28/2010
8/15/2011
10/1/2010
7/4/2012
10/31/2011
7/15/2013
10/17/2012
7/15/2014
-25
8/25/2015
8/15/2016
68
10/31/2013
-25
10/17/2014
11/6/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lake Blaine
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 382 acres
Maximum Depth: 141 feet (43 meters)
Lake Blaine has a catchment area of 18,963 acres composed of glacial till (53%), Appekunney
argillite belt series (36%) and glacial lake deposits (2%) (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
The lake is located in Flathead County at an elevation of 914 meters. Surrounding land ownership is
entirely private. Fish distribution records indicate a presence of brook trout, kokanee, lake trout,
largemouth bass, largescale sucker, longnose sucker, northern pike, northern pike minnow, rainbow
trout, sunfish, westslope cutthroat trout, and yellow perch. No formal public access exists on Lake
Blaine; however volunteers reported that a lakefront landowner allows informal public access on
their property at the north end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Lake Blaine was stratified during all summer sampling
dates. Temperature profiles show that Lake Blaine has been within the avoidance threshold range for
salmonids at depths of up to 6 meters during July and August. Oxygen profiles show that the lake has
been between avoidance and anoxic concentration thresholds for salmonids at depths greater than 14
meters. Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was mixed during fall sampling dates with the
exception of the 2010 sampling date where the lake was stratified. Anoxia has been observed at
depths greater than 15 meters. When anoxic conditions occur at the benthic interface an oxidation
reduction potential exists, and nutrients stored in the sediment can be liberated back into the water
column, given the right conditions. Depth profiles suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid
habitation during summer months is between 7-14 meters.
Lake Blaine’s 2011/2016 average calcium concentration was reported at 33.2mg/L classifying it as a
high risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 130mg/L.
In 2011, volunteers reported higher than normal water elevations, and more vegetation than ever
observed. Two AIS reports were submitted to the website database for EWM in 2011. Montana
Department of Agriculture (MDA) was contacted after the report was filed, and confirmed that the
plant in question was not EWM. In 2012 and 2013, volunteers reported increased shore erosion from
recreational boat use.
Lake Blaine panoramic. Photo courtesy Gayle Chaffey.
69
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lake Blaine
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1994
1995
1996
1997
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.24519 N, 114.11948 W
50
tical Thermal Maximum
40
Lake Blaine
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
90
80
30
0
0
-10
-10
-20
-20
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Lake Blaine
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
8/14/2011
-30
-30
8/30/2012
8/13/2013
12/2/2011
8/12/2014
11/2/2012
9/1/2015
11/13/2013
8/17/2016
11/16/2015
Lake Blaine
Lake Blaine
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
10
15
Avoidance
0
0
5
10
15
0
Hypoxic
-10
-10
-20
-20
8/14/2011
-30
8/30/2012
70
-30
8/13/2013
12/2/2011
8/12/2014
11/2/2012
9/1/2015
11/13/2013
8/17/2016
11/16/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Blanchard Lake
Trophic Status: Meso-oligotrophic
Surface Area: 143 acres
Maximum Depth: 30 feet (9.1 meters)
Blanchard Lake has a catchment area of 2,649 acres. The geologic formations in the watershed are
dominated by glacial till (54%) with the remaining area in the Piegan group belt series (Ellis & Craft,
2008).
The lake is located in Flathead County three miles west of Whitefish at an elevation of 969 meters.
Fish stocking and population survey records indicate a presence of largemouth bass, northern pike,
yellow perch and pumpkinseed. Blanchard Lake has one motorized public access on the far north
end of the lake. WLI maintains two monitoring locations on the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Blanchard Lake was either stratified or weakly stratified
during summer sampling dates. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the
avoidance threshold range for salmonids at depths of up to 6 meters during August. Oxygen profiles
show that Blanchard Lake has been between avoidance and anoxic concentration thresholds for
salmonids at depths greater than 6 meters. Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was mixed during
fall sampling dates. Blanchard Lake is considered a warm water fishery.
Blanchard Lake often ranks among the highest of medium lakes for total persulfate nitrogen. The
lake’s 2011/2016 average calcium concentration was 39.5mg/L classifying it as a high risk for zebra
mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 82mg/L.
An EWM survey was conducted near the public access site after the discovery in Beaver Lake. No
EWM was found, however, northern milfoil was found throughout the lake. In 2012, what is
believed to have been whorled milfoil was found. More surveying is recommended to confirm the
types of milfoil species present in the lake. A Macrophyte survey was conducted in 2014 where
fragrant water lily was found along much of the south west shore.
Former WLI Intern Megan Powell and volunteer
Carol Treadwell-Steitz monitor Blanchard Lake.
Photo courtesy WLI.
71
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Blanchard Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2005
2006
2008
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.22668 N, 11422008 W
50
cal Thermal Maximum
40
Blanchard Lake
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
90
80
30
0
0
-2
-2
-4
-4
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Blanchard Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
8/31/1998
9/4/2001
-6
-6
9/4/2002
8/19/2005
8/21/2006
8/9/2010
8/28/2011
10/13/2010
8/23/2012
10/27/2011
6/14/2013
-8
10/23/2012
-8
7/29/2014
10/9/2013
8/7/2015
10/28/2014
8/15/2016
11/9/2015
Blanchard Lake
Blanchard Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
15
Avoidance
0
0
5
10
15
0
Hypoxic
-2
10
-2
-4
-4
8/31/1998
9/4/2001
-6
9/4/2002
-6
8/19/2005
8/21/2006
8/9/2010
8/28/2011
10/13/2010
8/23/2012
10/27/2011
6/14/2013
-8
7/29/2014
72
10/23/2012
-8
10/9/2013
8/17/2015
10/28/2014
8/15/2016
11/9/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
A macrophyte survey was conducted on Blanchard Lake on September 3, 2014. A total of 222 sites were
surveyed for plants/algae. Dense macrophyte beds exist in Blanchard Lake and several plant species were
found during the survey. Blanchard is considered a warm water fishery, and oxygen levels drop
substantially during summer months after the lake
Blanchard Lake
becomes stratified.
Dominant Plant Distribution September, 2014
Although northern milfoil was not a dominate plant, it
exists throughout much of the lake. The pink teardrop
icons on the map represent fragrant water lily, an invasive
plant that was intentionally planted in Blanchard and
other nearby lakes as an ornamental.
Chara
Co-dominance
>20 ft Deep
3%
7%
25%
9%
11%
Bladderwart
24%
17%
Water Shield
Yellow Water Liliy
Co-dominant Plant Species Composition Co-dominant
%
Yellow Water Lily /Bladderwart
20.75
Water Shield / Bladderwart
11.32
Yellow water lily and water
shield are emergent plants that
have floating leaves. During the
summer months, these plants
blanket the surface of Blanchard
Lake. Photo courtesy Kim
Schierl.
73
Yellow Water Lily / Bladderwart / Chara
Yellow Water Lily / White Stem
Pondweed
Yellow Water Lily / Chara
Bladderwart / Chara
Northern Milfoil / Chara
Yellow Water Lily / Bladderwart /
Illinois Pondweed
Other
9.43
7.55
5.66
5.66
3.77
3.77
32.08
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Fragrant water lily. Photo courtesy WLI.
Fragrant water lily (left) is a non-native aquatic
plant with large symmetrical white or pink blooms
and heart-shaped glossy green floating leaves with
a purple underside. The leafstalk is submerged
and grows out of large rhizomes which serve as a
common food source for muskrats. The flowers
range from 3-15 inches wide with several broad,
curved petals that narrow toward the center.
They are found in still, relatively shallow water
(1.5-2 meters) lakes and ponds with silty beds.
Native to the eastern portion of North America, its
commercial popularity has caused its extensive
dispersal throughout North America. The plant is
now considered a secondary invader that can
achieve extraordinary population growth and
destabilize ecosystems.
Illinois pondweed (right) is a submerged plant that is
native to Montana. Illinois has both submerged and
floating leaves up to eight inches in length. Green
flowers extend three inches from the water’s surface
and are organized in whorls. Illinois pondweed is often
confused with Richardson’s pondweed (native), and
non-native curly leaf pondweed.
Illinois pondweed. Photo courtesy WLI.
Curly-leaf pondweed. Photo courtesy WLI.
74
Curly-leaf pondweed (left) is an invasive aquatic
perennial that is native to Eurasia, Africa, and
Australia. It was accidentally introduced to United
States waters in the mid-1880s by hobbyists who
used it as an aquarium plant. The leaves are
reddish-green, oblong, and about 3 inches long,
with distinct wavy edges that are finely toothed.
The stem of the plant is flat, reddish-brown and
grows from .2- 1 meter long. The plant usually
drops to the lake bottom by early July. CLP leaves
resemble lasagna noodles. CLP infestations
discovered in several isolated patches in Flathead
Lake and the Flathead River.
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lake Five
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 152 acres
Maximum Depth: 62 feet (18.9 meters)
Lake Five’s drainage basin is dominated by glacial till (68%) with the remainder lying in the Grinnel
argillite belt series (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
Lake Five is located in Flathead County in the Hungry Horse Ranger District at an elevation of 993
meters. Fish distribution records indicate a presence of brook trout, kokanee, largemouth bass,
longnose sucker, northern pike minnow, pumpkinseed, rainbow trout, walleye, westslope cutthroat
trout and yellow perch. A new motorized public access site was constructed in the fall of 2011 on the
southeast end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Lake Five was stratified during summer sampling dates.
Temperature profiles show that Lake Five has been within the avoidance threshold range for
salmonids at depths of up to 9 meters during August. Oxygen profiles show that Lake Five has been
between avoidance and anoxic concentration thresholds for salmonids at depths greater than 13
meters. Depth profiles suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid habitation during summer months is
between 9-13 meters. Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was mixed during fall sampling dates.
Lake Five ranked highest among medium lakes for calcium. Lake Five’s 2010, 2011 and 2016
average calcium concentration was 42.4mg/L classifying it as a high risk for zebra mussel
colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 150mg/L. In 2015, Lake Five ranked highest
among medium lakes for chlorophyll (a).
A visual survey for EWM was conducted in 2011 and 2012 along the shoreline yielding no suspect
results. Additional surveying is recommended based on new ease of access, and recreational use.
Photo: Volunteer Ron Ridenour and his dog Cody cruising on
Lake Five.
75
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lake Five
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2005
2007
2008
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.46566 N, 114.01103
50
tical Thermal Maximum
40
Lake Five
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
90
80
30
0
0
-5
-5
-10
-10
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Lake Five
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
8/31/1998
8/22/2001
8/29/2002
8/25/2005
-15
-15
11/28/2011
8/1/2012
10/26/2012
7/30/2013
11/4/2013
8/19/2014
10/29/2014
9/9/2015
11/10/2015
8/17/2016
Lake Five
Lake Five
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
10
15
Avoidance
0
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
0
5
10
15
0
Hypoxic
-5
-5
-10
-10
8/31/1998
8/22/2001
8/29/2002
8/25/2005
-15
8/1/2012
7/30/2013
76
-15
11/28/2011
10/26/2012
8/19/2014
11/4/2013
9/9/2015
10/29/2014
8/17/2016
11/10/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Foys Lake
Trophic Status: Mesotrophic
Surface Area: 241 acres
Maximum Depth: 134 feet (40.9 meters)
Foys Lake has a drainage basin of 1,836 meters. The basin area is dominated by the Piegan group
belt series (86%) of the Salish Mountains with the remainder composed of glacial till (Ellis & Craft,
2008).
Foys Lake is located three miles southwest of Kalispell in Flathead County at an elevation of 106
meters. The lake is surrounded entirely by private land ownership. Fish distribution records indicate
a presence of arctic grayling, kokanee, rainbow trout and redside shiner. Foys Lake has one
motorized public access site located on the southeast end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Foys Lake was stratified during summer sampling. The
temperature profile shows that Foys Lake was within the avoidance threshold range for salmonids at
a depth of 7 meters during August. Oxygen profiles shows that the lake was between avoidance and
anoxic concentration thresholds for salmonids at a depth greater than 17 meters. When anoxic
conditions occur at the benthic interface an oxidation reduction potential exists and nutrients stored
in the sediment can be liberated back into the water column given the right conditions. Depth profiles
suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid habitation during summer months is between 8-15 meters.
Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was mixed during fall sampling dates.
Foys Lake consistently ranks among the highest of Medium lakes for total phosphorus, total nitrogen
and chlorophyll (a). The lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 3.8mg/L
classifying it as a very low risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported
at 700mg/L.
In 2011, 2012 and 2014 an EWM survey was conducted near the public access site yielding no
suspect results. Very few macrophytes (aquatic plants) were found in the littoral zone during the
surveys.
Volunteer Allen Gustafson
prepares to collect a winter
hydrolab profile blow the ice
on Foys Lake. Photo courtesy
WLI.
77
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Foys Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
Location: 48.16738 N, 114.36279
10
1994
1996
1997
2010
50
tical Thermal Maximum
40
2012
Foys Lake
Foys Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
90
80
30
0
0
-5
-5
-10
-10
-15
-15
-20
-20
-25
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
2011
2013
2014
2016
Year
0
50
70
60
80
90
-25
11/8/2011
8/22/2012
11/19/2012
8/11/2013
11/12/2013
8/5/2014
-30
10/28/2014
-30
8/16/2016
11/5/2015
Foys Lake
Foys Lake
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
10
15
Avoidance
0
0
5
10
15
0
-5
-5
Hypoxic
-10
-10
-15
-15
-20
-20
-25
-25
11/8/2011
8/22/2012
11/19/2012
8/11/2013
11/12/2013
8/5/2014
-30
8/16/2016
78
10/28/2014
-30
11/5/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Glen Lake
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 301 Acres
Maximum Depth: 40 feet (12.2 meters)
Glen Lake has a basin area of 4,839 acres composed of alluvium (65%) and the Piegan group belt
series (Ellis and Craft, 2008).
Glen Lake is located in Lincoln County at an elevation of 914 meters. It has a surface area of 301
acres and a maximum depth of 40 feet. Surrounding land ownership is 100% private. Fish stocking
records indicate a presence of kokanee and rainbow trout. There is also a population of yellow perch.
There is one motorized public access site located on the northeast side of the lake. Temperature and
oxygen profiles show that Glen Lake was either evenly mixed or weakly stratified during summer
sampling dates. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance threshold
range for salmonids at depths of up to 6 meters during July and August. Hydrolab profiles show that
the lake was mixed during fall sampling dates.
Glen Lake’s 2010, 2011and 2016 average calcium concentration was 28.3mg/L classifying it as a
moderate to high risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at
150mg/L.
Photo: Volunteer Guenter Heinz en route to the Glen
Lake monitoring location. Photo courtesy WLI.
79
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Glen Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.86221 N, 114.9481
50
tical Thermal Maximum
40
Glen Lake
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
30
90
0
0
-2
-2
-4
-4
-6
-6
-8
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Glen Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
-8
7/28/2008
8/5/2009
7/28/2010
11/7/2011
9/5/2011
10/22/2012
7/22/2012
10/6/2013
8/16/2013
-10
-10
7/15/2014
10/22/2014
11/2/2015
7/18/2016
Glen Lake
Glen Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
10
15
Avoidance
0
0
5
10
15
0
-2
-2
Hypoxic
-4
-4
-6
-6
-8
7/28/2008
-8
8/5/2009
7/28/2010
9/5/2011
11/7/2011
7/22/2012
10/22/2012
8/16/2013
-10
7/15/2014
7/18/2016
80
10/6/2013
-10
10/22/2014
11/2/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Holland Lake
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 414 acres
Maximum Depth: 156 feet (47.5 meters)
Holland Lake has a basin area of 423 acres which is composed of both the Piegan group (39%) and
Missoula group (32%) belt series and alluvium (20%) (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
Holland Lake is located fifteen miles north of Seeley Lake in Missoula County at an elevation of
1,280 meters. Surrounding land ownership is entirely USFS. Fish distribution records indicate a
presence of bull trout, kokanee, largescale sucker, longnose sucker, mountain whitefish, northern
pike minnow, peamouth chub, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout and yellow perch. Holland
Lake has one motorized public access on the east end of the lake. The lake can also be accessed from
the campground on the northern side of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Holland Lake was stratified during summer sampling.
Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance threshold range for salmonids
at depths of up to 6 meters during July and August. Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was mixed
during fall sampling dates.
Holland Lake’s 2011/2016 average calcium concentration was 21.2mg/L classifying it as a moderate
risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 77mg/L.
No EWM was found during a survey conducted in 2012.
Holland Lake and Mission mountains. Photo
courtesy Gravity Shots.
81
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Holland Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
Location: 47.44784 N, 113.59959 W
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1997
1998
1999
2005
50
2012
tical Thermal Maximum
40
2011
Holland Lake
Holland Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
30
90
0
0
-5
-5
-10
-10
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
2010
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
50
70
60
80
90
8/6/1998
-15
-15
8/11/2005
11/15/2011
8/26/2012
11/20/2012
7/31/2013
10/17/2013
8/7/2014
10/21/2014
9/8/2015
10/29/2015
Holland Lake
Holland Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
15
0
5
10
15
0
Avoidance
0
10
Hypoxic
-5
-5
-10
-10
8/6/1998
-15
8/11/2005
82
-15
11/15/2011
8/26/2012
11/20/2012
7/31/2013
10/17/2013
8/7/2014
10/21/2014
9/8/2015
10/29/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lower Stillwater Lake
Trophic Status: Oligo-mesotrophic
Surface Area: 250 acres
Maximum Depth: 53 feet (16.2 meters)
Lower Stillwater Lake has a drainage area of 103,490 acres. Lower Stillwater Lake has the largest
drainage area by far of all the medium sized lakes. The geology of the drainage area is composed of
alluvium (37%) and the Piegan group (19%), Ravalli group (19%) and the Wallace formation (23%)
of the belt series (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
Lower Stillwater is located in Flathead County 12 miles northwest of Whitefish on Highway 93 at an
elevation of 975 meters. Surrounding land ownership are State Trust Lands and private. Fish
distribution includes lake trout, mountain whitefish, northern pike, pumpkinseed sunfish, rainbow
trout, westslope cutthroat trout, and yellow perch. There is one motorized public access site on the
south end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that the lake was stratified or weakly stratified during
summer sampling. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance threshold
range for salmonids at depths of up to 3 meters during July and August. Oxygen profiles show that
Lower Stillwater Lake has been between avoidance and anoxic concentration thresholds for
salmonids at depths greater than 6 meters. Depth profiles suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid
habitation during summer months is between 5-8 meters. Hydrolab profiles show that the lake was
mixed during fall sampling dates.
Lower Stillwater Lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 36.4mg/L
classifying it as a high risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at
130mg/L.
The lake was surveyed for EWM in 2012 and 2013. No EWM was found. A 2012 report of curly leaf
pondweed was investigated and identified as Richardson’s pondweed.
Linda and Eric Sawtelle on Lower Stillwater
Lake. Photo courtesy WLI.
83
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lower Stillwater Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1992
1993
2000
2001
2002
2003
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.51956 N, 114.55792 W
Lower Stillwater Lake
40
50
60
Fall Temperature (F)
70
80
90
0
30
0
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
tical Thermal Maximum
Lower Stillwater Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
-2
-5
-4
-6
-10
-8
8/23/2001
7/24/2008
7/23/2009
11/7/2011
7/18/2012
10/23/2012
7/18/2013
10/9/2013
7/14/2014
10/28/2014
-10
8/6/2015
11/2/2015
8/27/2016
5
0
Lower Stillwater Lake
Lower Stillwater Lake
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
10
15
Avoidance
0
11/16/2015
0
5
10
15
0
-2
Hypoxic
-5
-4
-6
-10
8/23/2001
-8
7/24/2008
7/23/2009
10/20/2010
7/18/2012
11/7/2011
7/18/2013
10/23/2012
7/14/2014
8/6/2015
8/27/2016
84
10/9/2013
-10
10/28/2014
11/2/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Lower Stillwater Lake
A macrophyte survey was conducted on
Lower Stillwater Lake on August 27,
2016. A total of 56 sites were surveyed
for plants/algae. No EWM was found in
the survey, but because northern milfoil
is the most dominate plant, it indicates
that Lower Stillwater has favorable
habitat for EWM. There was more plant
diversity found on Lower Stillwater
than any of the other lakes monitored in
2016. Dense mats of marigold, chara
and pondweed on the north end of the
lake were observed. There were also
large quantities of filamentous algae
observed on the east side of the islands.
Lower Stillwater Lake
Dominant Plant Distribution September 2016
Water Moss
Sago Pondweed
Yellow Waterlily
Bladderwort
Elodea
Pondweed (Undistinguishable)
2% 2% 2%
2%
Marigold
2%
4%
American Pondweed
Northern Milfoil
4%
5%
38%
7%
Filamentous Algae
13%
20%
No Plants Present
Chara
Panoramic of Lower Stillwater Lake. Photo courtesy WLI.
85
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
86
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Murphy Lake
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 141 acres
Maximum Depth: 71 feet (21.6 meters)
Murphy Lake has a drainage area of 3.066 acres. The geology of the drainage basin is a composite of
alluvium (52%), Ravalli group belt series (26%) and the Piegan group belt series Ellis & Craft,
2008).
Murphy Lake is located in Lincoln County in the Kootenai National Forest of the Fortine Ranger
District at an elevation of 960 meters. Surrounding land ownership is 100% USFS. Fish distribution
includes largemouth bass and northern pike. There is one primitive motorized access located on the
north end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Murphy Lake was evenly mixed or weakly stratified
during summer sampling. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance
threshold range for salmonids at depths of up to 7 meters during July and August. Hydrolab profiles
show that Murphy Lake was mixed during fall sampling dates.
Murphy Lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 28.5mg/L classifying it as a
high risk for zebra mussel colonization.
In 2011-2014 EWM surveys were conducted near the public access site yielding no suspect results,
however, northern milfoil were found throughout the lake. Additional visual surveying is
recommended based on ease of access, recreational use and number of macrophytes present.
Murphy Lake boat ramp with informational
signage on AIS. Photo courtesy WLI.
87
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Murphy Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1995
2008
2009
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.73497 N, 114.85892 W
50
cal Thermal Maximum
40
Murphy Lake
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
90
30
0
0
-2
-2
-4
-4
-6
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Murphy Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
80
90
-6
7/31/2008
8/5/2009
9/5/2011
7/18/2012
11/7/2011
8/20/2013
-8
10/22/2012
-8
7/15/2014
10/9/2013
9/2/2015
10/24/2014
7/19/2016
11/2/2015
Murphy Lake
Murphy Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
15
Avoidance
0
0
5
10
15
0
Hypoxic
-2
10
-2
-4
-4
-6
-6
7/31/2008
8/5/2009
9/5/2011
7/18/2012
11/7/2011
8/20/2013
-8
7/15/2014
88
10/22/2012
-8
10/9/2013
9/2/2015
10/24/2014
7/19/2016
11/2/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Rogers Lake
Trophic Status: Meso-oligotrophic
Surface Area: 239 acres
Maximum Depth: 19 feet (5.8 meters)
Rogers Lake has a drainage area of 3,066 acres. The catchment is dominated by the Wallace
formation belt series (75%) with the rest as glacial till (Ellis & Craft, 2008).
Rogers Lake is located in Flathead County at an elevation of 1,219 meters. This is the shallowest of
the medium sized lakes included in the program. Surrounding land ownership is primarily private
and Forest Service. Fish distribution records indicate a presence of arctic grayling, redside shiner,
and westslope cutthroat trout. There is one primitive motorized public access located on the north
end of the lake.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Rogers Lake was evenly mixed during summer
sampling. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance threshold range for
salmonids at depths of up to 5 meters during August. Oxygen profiles vary considerably from year to
year. Hydrolab profiles show that Rogers Lake was mixed during summer and fall sampling dates.
Rogers Lake often ranks among the highest of medium lakes for total phosphorus and chlorophyll
(a). The lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 20.8mg/L classifying it as a
moderate risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 81mg/L.
An EWM survey was conducted in 2012 and 2013 near the public access site yielding no suspect
results, however, northern milfoil was found throughout the lake. Additional visual surveying is
recommended based on ease of access, recreational use and number of macrophytes present. In 2015,
Rogers Lake ranked highest among medium lakes for total phosphorus.
89
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Rogers Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
1994
1995
1996
1997 1998
1999
2000 2001
2002
2003
2004 2005
2006
2007
2008 2010
2011
2012 2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.06683 N, 114.60562 W
40
50
Critical Thermal Maximum
30
Rogers Lake
Rogers Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
90
30
0
-2
-2
-4
-4
50
Incipient Lethal Temperature
0
40
70
60
80
90
8/20/1998
8/9/2002
8/20/2005
8/29/2006
-6
-6
10/22/2010
8/14/2012
11/8/2011
8/19/2013
11/1/2012
8/5/2014
11/5/2013
8/18/2015
11/5/2015
8/16/2016
Rogers Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
0
5
10
15
0
-2
-4
-6
10/22/2010
11/8/2011
11/1/2012
11/5/2013
11/5/2015
90
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Sophie Lake
Trophic Status: Oligotrophic
Surface Area: 221 acres
Maximum Depth: 70 feet (21.3 meters)
Sophie Lake is located in Lincoln County four miles northwest of Eureka on Highway 37 at an
elevation of 792 meters. Surrounding land ownership are State Trust Lands, MFWP and private.
Fish stocking records indicate a presence of rainbow trout and kokanee. Population surveys also
found bluegill, bull trout, largescale suckers, northern pike and northern pike minnow. There is one
motorized public access site located on the south end of the lake. Due to high water, the public
access, dock, and campground were flooded in the spring/summer of 2011and 2012.
Temperature and oxygen profiles show that Sophie Lake was stratified or weakly stratified during
summer sampling. Temperature profiles show that the lake has been within the avoidance threshold
range for salmonids at depths of up to 5 meters during July. Oxygen profiles show that Sophie Lake
has been between avoidance and anoxic concentration thresholds for salmonids at depths greater than
13 meters. Depth profiles suggest that the ideal depth for salmonid habitation during summer months
is between 6-12 meters. Hydrolab profiles show that Sophie Lake was mixed or weakly stratified
during fall sampling dates.
Sophie Lake’s 2010, 2011 and 2016 average calcium concentration was 23.1mg/L classifying it as a
moderate risk for zebra mussel colonization. The 2012 alkalinity level was reported at 110mg/L.
An EWM survey was conducted in 2012 near the public access site yielding no suspect results,
however, northern milfoil was found throughout the lake. Additional visual surveying is
recommended based on ease of access, recreational use and number of macrophytes present.
Photos taken on June 22, 2012 depicting Sophie Lake flooding. Photos courtesy Barb Hvizdak.
91
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
Sophie Lake
Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI)
Carlson's TSI (Total)
Chlorophyll (a)
100
Secchi Depth
Total Persulfate Nitrogen
Total Phosphorus
Hypereutrophic
90
80
70
Eutrophic
60
Mesotrophic
50
40
30
Oligotrophic
20
10
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
Year
0
Location: 48.95835 N, 115.12335 W
50
itical Thermal Maximum
40
Sophie Lake
Fall Temperature (F)
60
70
80
30
90
0
0
-5
-5
-10
-10
40
Incipient Lethal Temperature
30
Sophie Lake
Summer Temperature (F)
50
70
60
90
80
7/31/2008
7/30/2009
7/28/2010
8/13/2011
-15
-15
11/4/2011
7/16/2012
10/22/2012
7/16/2013
10/8/2013
7/22/2014
10/22/2014
8/10/2015
11/2/2015
7/18/2016
Sophie Lake
Sophie Lake
Fall Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
Summer Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L)
5
0
0
5
10
15
0
Hypoxic
-5
15
Avoidance
0
10
-5
-10
-10
7/31/2008
7/30/2009
7/28/2010
8/13/2011
-15
7/16/2012
92
-15
11/4/2011
7/16/2013
10/22/2012
7/17/2014
10/8/2013
8/10/2015
10/22/2014
7/18/2016
11/2/2015
Whitefish Lake Institute
Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network 2016 Program Summary
93
Whitefish Lake Institute