Secchi Disk Water Transparency
Transparency, also referred to as water clarity, is a measure of how far light can travel in water. Water clarity is affected by the amount of suspended particles and dissolved materials in the water. A secchi disk is a simple tool that measures water transparency/ clarity.
Consistent Secchi disk measurements through time are a useful indicator of water quality changes and trends. Check out our Secchi disk transparency fact sheet to learn more.
Secchi disk measurements are taken over the deepest location in a lake. Volunteers will need a canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or motor boat.
Details
Cost to enroll: $30/ year
Enrollment deadline: May 10, 2025
Equipment requirements: A Secchi disk (a one time purchase from us during enrollment for $60 or you can purchase from another location).
Time commitment: Volunteers measure Secchi disk transparency twice per month from mid-may through mid-September.
Training requirement: Training for this parameter is optional, but recommended. See training events here and watch the recorded Secchi training videos below.
How do I measure Secchi disk transparency?
Visit the Training Page for in-person and virtual training events
Additional Information
Become a Volunteer!
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