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Know Your Watershed is coordinated by Conservation Technology Information Center.

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Diagnostic / Feasibility Study  
This study was completed as part of Phase 1 of section 314 of the Clean Water Act by Ohio EPA, Division of Surface Water, in 1989. The results were published in 1990. This study helped construct the framework for the watershed project. The data gathered from the study indicated Indian Lake as a highly impacted lake and a high priority area for federal aid. This comprehensive study determined pollution sources and patterns and recommended the best measures to combat the problems.

The emphasis of the plan was instrumental in the project receiving money under Phase II of the section 314 of the Clean Water Act. The recommendations of the Phase I Study emphasized reduction of pollutants, primarily sediments, phosphorus and nitrogen, entering the lake system.

The grading method used in this study was developed by Ohio EPA and called the Ohio Lake Condition Index (LCI). LCI is a multi-parameter, holistic approach to the assessment of lake water quality. The LCI is an index used to evaluate if a lake is reaching its full designated potential. The LCI utilizes: biological, chemical, as well as the public perception on the overall lake condition in its parameters. Both quantitative (measured) and qualitative (evaluated by best professional judgment) data is used. A copy of this report is kept on file at the watershed project office.

Results
The LCI score for Indian Lake was 39.29 out of a range of ten to 100, with 100 being 100 percent impaired. Indian Lake was rated the third worst lake in Ohio and listed as being hypereutrophic. A eutrophic lake is high in nutrients and supports a large bio-mass (plants and animals living in the lake). Eutrophic lakes are characterized as being weedy and subject to frequent algae blooms, plus they normally support large fish populations. Hypereutrophic simply indicates this process is accelerated.

Macroinvertebrate data collected on the North and South Fork tributaries had an Invertebrate Community Index (ICI) of 48 to 32. The narrative description of the ICI equates to exceptional to marginally good.

The overall Diagnostic/Feasibility Study developed data to be used by the Indian Lake Watershed Project. Due in part to the impairment revealed from this study, the project was able to secure funds for programs designed to reduce sediment and nutrient inputs into the lake.

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