Storm Lake IA 04-RAC-1143

Assessment Comments

Assessment is based on results of (1) ISU lake survey, (2) surveys by IDNR Fisheries Bureau (3) ISU report on lake phytoplankton communities, and (4) results of U.S. EPA/IDNR fish tissue monitoring.

Basis for Assessment

The assessments developed for the 1994 and 1996 reports were reviewed and approved by the DNR Fisheries Bureau.   Thus, the Class A (primary contact recreation) uses remain assessed as FST, while the Class B(LW) aquatic life uses remain assessed as PS due to excessive turbidity and organic enrichment related, in part, to wind-driven resuspension of sediment and nutrients in the relatively shallow glacial lake.   Due to these continuing problems, the DNR Fisheries Bureau recommended that this lake be placed on the 1998 list of Section 303(d) waters.   Water quality problems in Storm Lake and its watershed have been the focus of the Storm Lake Water Quality Project.   During the last four years, community education efforts and implementation of nonpoint source controls in the watershed to reduce water quality impacts.   Remaining water quality problems include soil erosion, gully erosion, Purple Loosestrife control, agricultural runoff, and urban lawn care.   For more information on this project, call 712/732-3096.