You are here:
SPIRIT LAKE, KOOTENAI COUNTY, IDAHO - WATER QUALITY STATUS REPORT, 1987
Description:
Spirit Lake is a high quality recreational lake located in northwestern Kootenai County, Idaho (17010214). A 1984 water quality assessment indicated nutrient enrichment from nonpoint sources, such as timber harvest and domestic wastewater, were causing increased aquatic plant growth and reduced water clarity. Further water quality assessment and monitoring during 1986 verified these eutrophication trends. Water quality sampling was conducted at the same lake locations to ensure consistency and comparable results. Spirit Lake exhibits hypolimnetic anoxia and elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus under stratified conditions. Water clarity, however, has not significantly changed over the past 35 years. Bellatty, J.M. 1989. Water Quality Status Report No. 87. Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Division of Environmental Quality, Boise, ID. 30 pp. plus appendices.