BFBM Lake Mapper - try out the BFBM's new Lake Mapper!
The Lake Mapper shows all the lakes monitored along with water quality data (as available) and other lake-specific informaiton. To access the mapper, please click on the link above or the map on the left. If you have any feedback on this interactive mapping application, please email
leigh.lager@dep.nj.gov
In 2005, the Bureau reinstituted its ambient Lake Monitoring Network to provide the water quality data necessary to assess the ecological health of the State's lentic water resource. This program currently includes regionally targeted, statewide reference, and randomly selected lakes(statistical design) from the State's 1700 lakes and ponds. The water quality measurements conducted at each lake includes parameters such as dissolved oxygen, pH, nutrients, and chlorophyll a. Data assists New Jersey in determining the status and trends in lake water quality needed to meet NJDEP's Clean Water Act requirements and our Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) related water quality assessments.
The lake Monitoring Network addresses the deficiencies cited in the 1999 USEPA's Office of Inspector General's Audit Report, needs of the watershed management program and provides data for the Integrated Water Quality Assessment Report {305(b)/303(d)}. This approach comports with the guidance provided in USEPA's publication "Elements of a State Water Monitoring and Assessment Program" (March 2003), which requires that states develop and implement long-term strategies that include monitoring of all State waterbody types including lakes.
The Bureau of Freshwater & Biological Monitoring performs ambient lake monitoring in addition to Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) sampling and response. For other lake inquiries, see below.
Swimming Beaches - Please contact the health department of the municipality or county where the beach is located. If swimming beach is in a state park, please contact the state park directly.
