Myrtle Lake Core Sampling and Analysis

Myrtle Lake experiences frequent nuisance algae blooms and does not meet Minnesota state standards for total phosphorus and chlorophyll-a. This has led to questions whether the productivity and condition of the lake has changed over time, what the natural or historical condition of the lake was, what the current trajectory of the lake is, and how to set effective management goals. This project uses paleolimnological techniques and quantitative environmental reconstructions to estimate past conditions and natural variability, identify timing of ecological changes, and determine rates of change and recovery.