Secchi Dip-In
The Secchi Dip-In program involves community scientists measuring water turbidity with a very simple indicator: the Secchi disc!
Any time you are out on the water, whether that be from a boat, kayak, or canoe, you can collect this quick but valuable observation!
The Secchi Dip-In program involves community scientists measuring water turbidity, gathering data on the water clarity at Pigeon Lake. Our data contributes to the Secchi Dip-In database created by the North American Lake Management Society.
Measuring Water Clarity:
If you have access to a boat, consider becoming a citizen scientist for our Secchi Dip-In program. Pick up a Secchi disk from our office, then take your boat out on the lake. Water clarity is measured by lowering the secchi disk into the water until it is no longer visible.
If this program interests you, please join! Once you sign up, volunteers will receive monitoring procedures, supplies, and guidance.
PLWA How to Take a Secchi Depth Video
NALMS How to Take a Secchi Depth Video
Data entry:
Using LakeObserver to record your Secchi Dip-In observations: the LakeObserver app will automatically record your coordinates and average your measurements for you. You can download the LakeObserver app. For more information on getting setup or using LakeObserver, visit our LakeObserver page.
If you prefer a paper copy to collect your observations:
Secchi Dip-In Volunteer Instruction Sheet
Want to make your own Secchi Disc? Refer to the instructional guide here
How to collect a Secchi Dip-In measurement:
Please follow all safety precautions regarding your watercraft when collecting a Secchi Dip-in measurement! This includes checking the weather to ensure conditions are safe for water activities, wearing a lifejacket/PFD, and bringing necessary safety equipment with you! Note: a watercraft includes a boat, personal watercraft (sea-doo), canoe, kayak, paddleboard, pedalboat - any floating vessel!
Venture out on the water to a location that is at least 3 meters (or about 9 feet).
On the shaded side of your watercraft, lower the secchi disc into the water until you can no longer see it. Grab the string at the surface of the water, and use the marks on the string to document the depth. Record this measurement (in the LakeObserver app or google form).
Optional (for higher accuracy): Raise the secchi disc just until you can see it in the water again. Measure this depth, and record this measurement. The average of these two measurements will be your secchi depth.
