How do you know if a lake is clean?

Look for signs of poor water quality, such as algal blooms and dirty or turbid water. Do not swim in water that smells like rotten eggs or sewage. Avoid swimming near pipes that drain into lakes or streams.



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Worried about the health of your lake? Check for these signs
  • Healthy: Lots of frogs and turtles. ...
  • Healthy: Woody debris, fallen logs, and brush along the water's edge. ...
  • Unhealthy: A manicured lawn. ...
  • Healthy: Root systems growing within the water. ...
  • Unhealthy: Alien invaders. ...
  • Unhealthy: An unbalanced shoreline.


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If there is scum or algae visible in the water, it won't be clean enough to swim in. There are also natural hazards to outdoor waters compared with pools, especially in the summer. Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria naturally found in lake ecosystems.

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Smelly or Discolored Water The smell or appearance of water can also indicate water pollution. Water contaminated with sulfur or certain bacteria will emit the smell of rotten eggs. High iron levels give water an orange color. High manganese levels will cause water to look purple or black.

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Fast-moving currents, waves and rapids, even in shallow water. Hazards, such as dams, underwater obstacles, or rocks and debris. Vegetation, animals and fish. Drop-offs that can unexpectedly change water depth.

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Pools also tend to be much cleaner than natural lakes. This is because most pool owners take extra care to make sure the pool is sanitized, oxidized, and pH balanced on a regular basis. You're far less likely to pick up an infection from swimming in the local pool.

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