The Steuben County Lakes Council is active in local and state-wide issues on residents’ behalf in order to protect the lakes environment in Steuben County, IN.
Providing education about water quality and environmental issues is a major goal of the Steuben County Lakes Council. The Steuben County Lakes Council strives to be a source of information for individuals seeking answers to lake related questions. If you need information, please feel free to call or email their office for assistance.
The projects of the Steuben County Lakes Council are made possible by your support, and they invite you to join them and become a member. If you would like more information, please visit the SCLC Membership Page.
Water Quality Testing
In the early 2000s, the Steuben County Lakes Council (SCLC) began a water quality monitoring program to address the public’s concerns about unsafe Escherichia coli (E. coli) levels in the County’s lakes and streams.
E. coli is a bacterium found in many places, including the environment, foods, water, and the intestines of people and animals. Most E. coli strains are harmless and are part of a healthy intestinal tract. E. coli helps digest food, produces vitamins, and protects us from harmful germs. However, some E. coli strains can cause serious illness in people who encounter contaminated water, typically through swimming and other water sports.
Nutrient and sediment levels were also of concern as excessive nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms and beach closures, while high inputs of sediments can adversely affect aquatic life and can lead to increased maintenance costs associated with cleaning out regulated drains.