Authors: R.A. Smith
Author Affiliation: LCWC
Journal: LCWC Report; January 6, 2025
Ensuring recreational water quality is a critical requirement for the tourist-based economy of the Les Cheneaux Islands. The Les Cheneaux Watershed Council has monitored nutrient levels and algal biomass in island channels during the past 22 years. This report summarizes data from an abridged monitoring meth-od which provides a valid trophic assessment yet reduces time and effort to assign the water quality status of local waters. Results of the abridged procedure compare favorably with historic patterns of total phos-phorus and chlorophyll-a concentrations. Based on findings herein, the amended water quality monitor-ing protocol can be recommended for continued use.