US Long-Term Ecological Research Network

Wisconsin Lake Historical Limnological Parameters 1925 - 2009

Abstract
This dataset is a compilation of ten sources of data representing physical and chemical properties of 13,093 Wisconsin lakes. The goal was to compile a comprehensive resource of historical and more recent lake information which would be accessible by querying a single database. Due to the wide temporal extent (1925-2009), methods used for measuring lake parameters in this dataset have varied. A careful look at the available metadata and background information is recommended.Sampling Frequency: variesNumber of sites: 13,093
Contact
Dataset ID
263
Date Range
-
Maintenance
complete
Metadata Provider
Methods
1. Dataset: sr1 - Surface Water Resource Inventory (SWRI) Wisconsin. Temporal coverage: 1960-1980. Original description found in the preface of each Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) SWRI report, published by county.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Original source of data is WDNR SWRI printed reports. An electronic version (MS Excel spreadsheet) of the data was available (the origin of this spreadsheet was unknown) and was used in preparation of this database. Some discrepancies observed between printed version and electronic version of the dataset: 1) in the printed reports, alkalinity is expressed either as methyl orange or methyl purple; varies from county to county. The electronic format does not contain any metadata or explanation regarding alkalinity. 2) in the printed reports, sometimes max depth provided, sometimes known depth, and sometimes Secchi depth- these values seem to have been transcribed as Secchi depth in the electronic dataset. 3) values of area, conductivity, alkalinity, and depth in electronic format have been rounded up from values in the books. 4) a field in the spreadsheet named "Cl" has no match in books and was not included in the final dataset. 5) color code was not defined in electronic format. It was deciphered and checked against a few lakes from different counties in the printed reports. Final color codes: 1 - Light brown. 2 - Medium brown. 3 - Dark brown. 4 - Clear. 5 - TurbidIssues specific to the electronic format: 13822 records originally. After eliminating all records without WBICs (Water Body Identification Code) or with duplicate WBICs, the dataset reduced to 12638 records with unique WBICs. Of these, 151 records (with area >10 acres) had no or zero data for some chemical parameters. Checked these records using WDNR SWRI reports. Eliminated any record that couldn't be resolved using the books and WDNR WBICs file.. Most records contain both alkalinity and conductivity data, although some do not contain both parameters. Final dataset sr1 has 12383 records2. Dataset: sr2 - Pieter Johnson. Temporal coverage: not specified. Original description: Combination of WDNR Register of Waterbodies (ROW) file, Wisconsin Lakes Book (wilk), and SWRI. Selected lakes with areas >= 10 acres, and lakes in at least 2 of the 3 datasets. Lakes with missing WBIC were not included. Lakes with missing surface area were not included.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Received original dataset from Jake Vander Zanden (UW-Madison, Center Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Received original dataset from Jake Vander Zanden (UW-Madison, Center for Limnology). The dataset was used in the following publication: Johnson, P.T., J.D. Olden, M.J. Vander Zanden. 2008. Dam invaders: impoundments facilitate biological invasions in freshwaters. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment 6:357-363. Original dataset contained 5213 records; . Eliminated 8 records without WBIC, legal (TRS) description, and no values for lake characteristics. Note: Many records are repeated from sr1 dataset. Final dataset sr2 has 5205 records.3. Dataset: sr3 - Biocomplexity Project. Temporal coverage: 2001-2004. Original description: Data Set Title: Biocomplexity; Coordinated Field Studies: Chemical Limnology. Investigators: Steve R. Carpenter, Jim Kitchell, Timothy K. Kratz, John J. Magnuson. Contact:NTL LTER Information Manager; Center for Limnology, 680 N Park St, Madison, WI, 53706-1492, USA;(phone) 608-262-2573;(fax) 608-265-2340;(email) infomgr@lter.limnology.wisc.edu; 62 Vilas County lakes were sampled from 2001-2004 (approximately 15 different lakes each year)Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Original dataset had 62 records. Replicate samples per lake averaged to single measurements. Two records represented a single lake (Little Rock, North and South basins); these were merged into one record. Final dataset sr3 has 61 records.4. Dataset: sr4 - Landscape Position Project. Temporal coverage: 1998. Original description: Data Set Title: Landscape Position Project: Chemical Limnology. Investigators: Ben Greenfield, Thomas Hrabik, Timothy K. Kratz, David Lewis, Amina Pollard, Karen Wilson. Contact: NTL LTER Information Manager; Center for Limnology, 680 N Park St, Madison, WI, 53706-1492, USA;(phone) 608-890-3446;(fax) 608-265-2340;(email) infomgr@lter.limnology.wisc.edu; Parameters characterizing the chemical limnology and spatial attributes of 51 lakes were surveyed as part of the Landscape Position Project.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: WBICs added. Ward Lake removed from data. Parameters values over multiple sampling events were averaged. Info regarding depth at which samples were taken was not retained. Final dataset sr4 has 50 records.5. Dataset: sr5 - Lillie and Mason. Temporal coverage: 1979. Original description: printed report WI DNR Technical Bulletin no.138. 1983. Limnological characteristics of Wisconsin LakesData manipulation for incorporation into database: Original file containing 667 records received from Paul Garrison (WDNR). 88 records lacked WBICs but 65 of these were assigned using WDNR lakes shapefile, matching names and areas of lakes. Final 23 records without WBICs were removed. Note: Since lake / impoundment classification doesn't seem to match Johnson's dataset (sr2), it was not included. Note from Richard Lathrop (WDNR): total P measurements are probably unreliable due to method used not being sensitive enough. Final dataset sr5 has 644 records.6.Dataset: sr6 - EPA- Eastern Lakes Survey (1984): Temporal coverage: 1984. Original description: Data Set Title: National Surface Water Survey: Eastern Lake Survey-Phase I. The Eastern Lake Survey-Phase I (ELS-I), conducted in the fall of 1984, was the first part of a long-term effort by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency known as the National Surface Water Survey. It was designed to synoptically quantify the acid-base status of surface waters in the United States in areas expected to exhibit low buffering capacity. The effort was in support of the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program (NAPAP). The survey involved a three-month field effort in which 1612 probability sample lakes and 186 special interest lakes in the northeast, southeast, and upper Midwest regions of the United States were sampled.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Original dataset, downloaded from EPA website, has over 100 parameters. Only a small subset of interest was retained. Original documentation for full dataset available is available. Dataset includes 285 Wisconsin lakes. WBICs were assigned using geographic coordinates from dataset. WBIC for one lake could not be determined and was excluded.. Note regarding conductivity parameter: value represents calculated conductivity, as the sum of concentrations of each major cation and anion. It is not a parameter measured in the field or lab. Actual formula used to calculated conductivity was not discovered. Final dataset sr6 has 284 records7. Dataset: sr7 - Environmental Research Lab Duluth (ERLD). Temporal coverage: 1979-1982. Original description: ERLD Lake Survey. Contact(s): NTL LTER Information Manager; Center for Limnology, 680 N Park St, Madison, WI, 53706-1492, USA;(phone) 608-262-2573;(fax) 608-265-2340;(email) infomgr@lter.limnology.wisc.edu; Chemical survey of 832 lakes in Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin and Ontario conducted by ERL-Duluth and UMD between 1979 and 1982 for evaluation of trophic state and sensitivity to acid deposition Glass, G.E. and Sorenson, J.A. (1994) USEPA ERLD-UMD acid deposition gradient-susceptibility database. U.S. EPA Environmental Research Laboratory - Duluth and University of Minnesota at Duluth, MN.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Dataset included 428 Wisconsin records for which WBICs were included. Note: Original dataset had several errors in WBIC assignment: 1179900 was assigned to three different water bodies; correct WBICs are: 1503000, 1502400, 1481100; also 1515800 changed to 1516000. Lake Clara had 5 different stations for most parameters sampled. First station that had values for all parameters was included in final dataset. Final dataset sr7 has 428 records.8. Dataset: sr8 - Birge-Juday Historical Dataset. Temporal coverage: 1925-1941. Original description: Birge-Juday Historical Lake Data. Investigator(s): Edward A. Birge, Chauncy Juday. Contact: NTL LTER Information Manager; Center for Limnology, 680 N Park St, Madison, WI, 53706-1492, USA;(phone) 608-262-2573;(fax) 608-265-2340;(email) infomgr@lter.limnology.wisc.edu; Data collected by Birge, Juday, and collaborators, mostly in north-central Wisconsin, from 1925 through 1941; generally one sample per lake during the summer, but on some lakes, especially around Trout Lake Station, samples were taken on several successive years. Note that not all variables were measured on all lakes (scarce data for nutrients and ions). Documentation: Johnson, M.D. (1984) Documentation and quality assurance of the computer files of historical water chemistry data from the Wisconsin Northern Highland Lake District (the Birge and Juday data).WDNR Technical Report. Number of sites: 608 (generally one sampling point per lake; occasionally, several sampling points per lake on multibasin, large lakes).Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Original dataset downloaded from UW-Madison, Center for Limnology LTER website. Values averaged for lakes with multiple samples. WBICs assigned to 577 lakes via GIS spatial join using site coordinates and WDNR lake shapefile. Note from Johnson, M.D. (1984): the units for alkalinity (fixed CO2) changed from cc/L to mg/L sometime between Aug 1926 and May 1927. 17 entries were originally cc/l. Thus there might be inconsistencies in the alkalinity data. Final dataset sr8 has 577 records.9. Dataset: sr9 - USGS National Water Inventory System (NWIS). Temporal coverage: 1969-2009. Original description: U.S. Geological Survey. This file contains selected water-quality data for stations in the National Water Information System water-quality database (http://nwis.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/). Explanation of codes found in this file are followed by the retrieved data. The data you have secured from the USGS NWIS Web database may include data that have not received Director's approval and as such are provisional and subject to revision. The data are released on the condition that neither the USGS nor the United States Government may be held liable for any damages resulting from its authorized or unauthorized use.Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Data downloaded for 240 lakes for the following parameters: calcium, conductivity, alkalinity, pH. Original parameter codes (USGS NWIS schema): p00915 p00095 p00400 p00916 p29801 p39086 p90095. Data are averaged for multiple measurements. WBICs assigned via GIS spatial join using site coordinates and WDNR lake shapefile. Final dataset sr9 has 240 records.10. Dataset: sr10 - WI Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Temporal coverage: 1969-2009 Original description: available at http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/swims/Data manipulation for incorporation into database: Original data received from Jennifer Filbert (WDNR). Data were extracted from WDNR Surface Water Integrated Monitoring System (SWIMS) database (http://dnr.wi.gov/org/water/swims/). Lakes represented had one or more of the following parameters: Secchi depth, calcium, conductivity, alkalinity, pH, total P, turbidity,, chlorophyll a. Data were averaged where multiple measurements were available. Final dataset sr10 has 53 records.The Data Source data table contains a summary of the 10 data sources with information on temporal coverage and record counts. It also includes information on the availability of calcium and conductivity data from the data sources.
Short Name
WILIMN1
Version Number
25

Conductivity

We collect unfiltered water samples for conductivity with peristaltic pump and tubing four times per year at the deepest part of the lake, sampling at the surface, mid water column, and the bottom. The sampling dates include February under ice, spring mixis, August stratified, and fall mixis.

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Groundwater Chemistry 1984 - current

Abstract
Water chemistry is measured annually in 11 monitoring wells to characterize regional groundwater chemistry in the Trout Lake area. The chemical parameters measured include pH, conductivity, total alkalinity, dissolved inorganic and organic carbon, total nitrogen, nitrate, ammonia, total phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, sulfate, iron, manganese, total silica and dissolved reactive silica. Chemical data are available at a quarterly sampling frequency for some years. In addition (see related data set - Groundwater Level), water levels in 37 monitoring wells are measured several times per year. The wells are scattered throughout the Trout Lake hydrological basin and the data are used to calibrate and test regional groundwater flow models. Sampling Frequency: annually - with some earlier data from quarterly sampling Number of sites: 11
Dataset ID
10
Date Range
-
Maintenance
ongoing
Metadata Provider
Methods
Ammonium, Nitrate, Nitrit Samples for ammonium and nitrate or nitrite are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored frozen until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for ammonium (and nitrateornitrite) simultaneously by automated colorimetric spectrophotometry, using a segmented flow autoanalyzer. Ammonium is determined by utilizing the Berthelot Reaction, producing a blue colored indophenol compound, where the absorption is monitored at 660 nm. The detection limit for ammonium is approximately 3 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 4000 ppb. The detection limit for nitrateornitrite is approximately 2 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 4000 ppb. Method Log: Prior to January 2006 samples, ammonium was determined on a Technicon segmented flow autoanalyzer. From 2006 to present, ammonium is determined by an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II segmented flow autoanalyzer. Chloride, Sulfate Samples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent. The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm. The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor. Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese Samples for calcium analysis (as well as dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese) are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. Calcium, as well as magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese are analyzed simultaneously on an optical inductively-coupled plasma emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). The acidified samples are directly aspirated into the instrument without a digestion. Calcium is analyzed at 317.933 nm and at 315.887 nm and viewed axially for low-level analysis and radially for high level analysis. The detection limit for calcium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. The detection limit for iron is 0.02 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 20 ppm. The detection limit for magnesium is 0.03 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. The detection limit for manganese is 0.01 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 2 ppm. The detection limit for potassium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 10 ppm. The detection limit for sodium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 2002, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese were determined on a Perkin-Elmer model 503 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lanthanum at a 0.8percent concentration was added as a matrix modifier to suppress chemical interferences. From January 2002 to present, samples are analyzed for calcium on a Perkin-Elmer model 4300 DV ICP. Inorganic and organic carbon Samples for inorganic and organic carbon are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered, if necessary, (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into glass, 24 ml vials (that are compatible with the carbon analyzer autosampler), and capped with septa, leaving no head space. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 2-3 weeks. The detection limit for inorganic carbon is 0.15 ppm, and the analytical range for the method is 60 ppm. The detection limit for organic carbon is 0.30 ppm and the analytical range for the method is 30 ppm. Method Log: Prior to May 2006 samples, inorganic carbon was analyzed by phosphoric acid addition on an OI Model 700 Carbon Analyzer. From May 2006 to present, inorganic carbon is still analyzed by phosphoric acid addition, but on a Shimadzu TOC-V-csh Total Organic Carbon Analyzer. Method Log: Prior to May 2006 samples, organic carbon was analyzed by heated persulfate digestion on an OI Model 700 Carbon Analyzer. From May 2006 to present, Organic carbon is analyzed by combustion, on a Shimadzu TOC-V-csh Total Organic Carbon Analyzer. Dissolved reactive silicon Samples for silicon are collected with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. Dissolved reactive silica is determined by the Heteropoly Blue Method and the absorption is measured at 820 nm. The detection limit for silicon is 6 ppb and the analytical range is 15000 ppb. Method Log These determinations were performed manually using a Bausch and Lomb Spectrophotometer from the beginning of the project until April 1984. From 1984 through 2005, dissolved reactive silicon was determined on a Technicon Auto Analyzer II. From January 2006 to present, samples are run on an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II Autoanalyzer. total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus Samples for total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus analysis are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered, when necessary, (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 mL of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. The samples must first be prepared for analysis by adding an NaOH–Persulfate digestion reagent and heated for an hour at 120 degrees C and 18-20 psi in an autoclave. The samples are analyzed for total nitrogen and total phosphorus simultaneously by automated colorimetric spectrophotometry, using a segmented flow autoanalyzer. Total nitrogen is determined by utilizing the automated cadmium reduction method, as described in Standard Methods, where the absorption is monitored at 520 nm. The detection limit for total and dissolved nitrogen is approximately 21 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 2500 ppb. The detection limit for total phosphorus is approximately 3 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 800 ppb. Method Log: Prior to January 2006 samples, total nitrogen was determined on a Technicon segmented flow autoanalyzer. From 2006 to present, total nitrogen is determined by an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II segmented flow autoanalyzer. pH We sample at the deepest part of the lake using a peristaltic pump and tubing, monthly during open water and approximately every five weeks during ice cover. We collect two types of pH samples at each sampling depth: one in 20ml vials with cone cap inserts to exclude all air from the vial, and one in 125ml bottles to be air equilibrated before analysis. The depths for sample collection are based on thermal stratification: top and bottom of the epilimnion, mid thermocline, and top, middle,and bottom of the hypolimnion. During mixis we sample at the surface, mid water column, and bottom. We analyze for pH the same day that samples are collected, keeping them cold and dark until just before analysis. Samples are warmed to room temperature in a dark container, and the air equilibrated samples are bubbled with outside air for at least 15 minutes prior to measurement. We measure pH using a Radiometer combination pH electrode and Orion 4Star pH meter. Protocol Log: 1981-1988 -- used a PHM84 Research pH meter. 1986 -- began analyzing air equilibrated pH. 1988 - July 2010 -- used an Orion model 720 pH meter.</p>
Short Name
NTLGW02
Version Number
23

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Chemical Limnology of Primary Study Lakes: Major Ions 1981 - current

Abstract
Parameters characterizing the major ions of the eleven primary lakes (Allequash, Big Muskellunge, Crystal, Sparkling, Trout, bog lakes 27-02 [Crystal Bog], and 12-15 [Trout Bog], Mendota, Monona, Wingra and Fish) are measured at one station in the deepest part of each lake at the top and bottom of the epilimnion, mid-thermocline, and top, middle, and bottom of the hypolimnion. These parameters include chloride, sulfate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, and specific conductance (northern lakes only). Sampling Frequency: quarterly (winter, spring and fall mixis, and summer stratified periods) Number of sites: 11
Core Areas
Dataset ID
2
Date Range
-
Maintenance
ongoing
Metadata Provider
Methods
Chloride, Sulfate Samples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent. The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm. The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor.
Short Name
NTLCH02
Version Number
37

Little Rock Lake Experiment at North Temperate Lakes LTER: Physical Limnology 1983 - 2000

Abstract
The Little Rock Acidification Experiment was a joint project involving the USEPA (Duluth Lab), University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, University of Wisconsin-Superior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Little Rock Lake is a bi-lobed lake in Vilas County, Wisconsin, USA. In 1983 the lake was divided in half by an impermeable curtain and from 1984-1989 the northern basin of the lake was acidified with sulfuric acid in three two-year stages. The target pHs for 1984-5, 1986-7, and 1988-9 were 5.7, 5.2, and 4.7, respectively. Starting in 1990 the lake was allowed to recover naturally with the curtain still in place. Data were collected through 2000. The main objective was to understand the population, community, and ecosystem responses to whole-lake acidification. Funding for this project was provided by the USEPA and NSF. Parameters characterizing the physical limnology of the treatment (north basin, stations 1 and 3) and reference basin (south basin, station 2 and 4) are usually measured at one station in the deepest part of each basin (stations 1 and 2) at 0.5 to 1-m depth intervals depending on the parameter. Parameters measured at depth include water temperature, vertical penetration of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll and phaeopigments. Additional derived parameters include fraction of surface PAR at each depth and percent oxygen saturation. Auxiliary data include time of day, air temperature, cloud cover, and wind speed and direction and secchi depth. Sampling Frequency: varies - Number of sites: 4
Core Areas
Dataset ID
248
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Reading Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen1. Before leaving to sample a lake, check to make sure that there are no air bubbles under the probe membrane of the YSI TemperatureorDissolved Oxygen meter. If there are air bubbles or if it has been several months since changing the membrane (or if the instrument does not calibrate well or the oxygen readings wander), change the membrane as explained in the manual. Note: We have always used the Standard membranes. If adding water to new membrane fluid bottle (KCl), make sure to add Milli-Q water and not the CFL distilled water.2. Be sure to always store the probe in 100percent humidity surrounded by a wet sponge or paper towel.3. Turn on the temperatureordissolved oxygen meter at least 30 minutes before using it. It is best to turn it on before leaving to sample a lake as it uses up batteries slowly.4. Calibrate the meter using the chart on the back of the instrument (adjusted to the Madison altitude - 97percent oxygen saturation). Leave the plastic cap on the probe (at 100percent humidity). The temperature should not be changing during the calibration. Zero the instrument. When the temperature equilibrates, adjust the oxygen to correspond to the chart. After calibrating the instrument, switch the knob to percent oxygen saturation to make sure it is close to 97percent.5. Take readings at 1 meter intervals making sure to gently jiggle the cord when taking the oxygen readings (to avoid oxygen depletion). Jiggling the cord is not necessary if using a cable with a stirrer. Take half meter readings in the metalimnion (when temperature andoror oxygen readings exhibit a greater change with depth). A change of temperature greater than 1degreeC warrants half-meter intervals.6. Record the bottom depth using the markings on the temp.oroxygen meter cord and take a temperature and dissolved oxygen reading with the probe lying on the lake bottom. Dont forget to jiggle the probe to remove any sediment.7. If any readings seem suspicious, check them again when bringing the probe back up to the surface. You can also double check the calibration after bringing the probe out of the water (and putting the cap back on). Light (PAR) extinction coefficient is calculated by linearly regressing ln (FRLIGHT (z)) on depth z where the intercept is not constrained. FRLIGHT(z) = LIGHT(z) or DECK(z) where LIGHT(z) is light measured at depth z and DECK(z) is light measured on deck (above water) at the same time.For open water light profiles, the surface light measurement (depth z = 0) is excluded from the regression.For winter light profiles taken beneath the ice, the first light data are taken at the bottom of the ice cover and are included in the regression. The depth of uppermost light value is equal to the depth of the ice adjusted by the water level in the sample hole, i.e., the depth below the surface of the water. The water level can be at, above or below the surface of the ice. If the water level was not recorded, it is assumed to be 0.0 and the calculated light extinction coefficient is flagged. If ice thickness was not recorded, a light extinction coefficient is not calculated.For light data collected prior to March, 2007, light values less than 3.0 (micromolesPerMeterSquaredPerSec) are excluded. For light data collected starting in March 2007, light values less than 1.0 (micromolesPerMeterSquaredPerSec) are excluded. Except for bog lakes before August 1989, a light extinction coefficient is not calculated if there are less than three FRLIGHT values to be regressed. For bog lakes before August 1989, a light extinction coefficient is calculated if there are least two FRLIGHT values to be regressed. In these cases, the light extinction coefficient is flagged as non-standard.FRLIGHT values should be monotonically decreasing with depth. For light profiles where this is not true, a light extinction coefficient is not calculated.For samples for which light data at depth are present, but the corresponding deck light are missing, a light extinction coefficient is calculated by regressing ln (LIGHT (z)) on depth z. Note that if actual deck light had remained constant during the recording of the light profile, the resulting light extinction coefficient is the same as from regressing ln(FRLIGHT(z)). In these cases, the light extinction coefficient is flagged as non-standard.
Short Name
LRPHYS1
Version Number
4

Landscape Position Project at North Temperate Lakes LTER: Vertical Lake Profiles 1998 - 1999

Abstract
Parameters characterizing the chemical limnology and spatial attributes of 45 lakes were surveyed as part of the Landscape Position Project. Parameters are measured at or close to the deepest part of the lake. A vertical profile of temperature, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity are collected at 1 meter increments Sampling Frequency: generally monthly for one summer; for some lakes, one or two samples in one summer Number of sites: 45
Dataset ID
95
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
We sample at the deepest part of the lake, taking a temperature and oxygen profile at meter intervals from the surface to within 1 meter of the bottom using a YSI Pro-ODO temp/DO meter.
Short Name
LPPPROF1
Version Number
8

Landscape Position Project at North Temperate Lakes LTER: Chemical Limnology 1998 - 2000

Abstract
Parameters characterizing the chemical limnology and spatial attributes of 51 lakes were surveyed as part of the Landscape Position Project. Parameters are measured at or close to the deepest part of the lake. The following parameters are measured one meter from the surface and two meters from the bottom of the lake: pH, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, total silica. The following parameters are measured one meter from the surface: dissolved organic carbon, total organic carbon, dissolved inorganic carbon, total inorganic carbon, spectrophotometric absorbance (color scan), major anions and cations, alkalinity. Sampling Frequency: once for conservative parameters (major ions, carbon, color, alkalinity); monthly for one summer for other parameters (chlorophyll, nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, silica, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity) Number of sites: 51Allequash Lake, Anderson Lake, Arrowhead Lake, Beaver Lake, Big Lake, Big Crooked Lake, Big Gibson Lake, Big Muskellunge Lake, Boulder Lake, Brandy Lake, Crampton Lake, Crystal Lake, Diamond Lake, Flora Lake, Heart Lake, Ike Walton Lake, Island Lake, Johnson Lake, Katherine Lake, Kathleen Lake, Katinka Lake, Lehto Lake, Little Crooked Lake, Little Muskie, Little Spider Lake, Little Sugarbush Lake, Little Trout Lake, Lower Kaubeshine Lake, Lynx Lake, McCullough Lake, Mid Lake, Minocqua Lake, Muskesin Lake, Nixon Lake, Partridge Lake, Randall Lake, Round Lake, Sanford Lake, Sparkling Lake, Statenaker Lake, Stearns Lake, Tomahawk Lake, Trout Lake, Upper Kaubeshine Lake, Verna Lake, Ward Lake, White Birch Lake, White Sand Lake, Wild Rice Lake, Wildcat Lake, Wolf Lake, Vilas County, WI, Iron County, WI, Oneida County, WI, Gogebic County, MI, USA
Dataset ID
91
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Chloride, SulfateSamples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent.The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm.The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm.Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor.Calcium, silicon, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganeseSamples for calcium analysis (as well as dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, silicon, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese) are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius.Calcium, as well as magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese are analyzed simultaneously on an optical inductively-coupled plasma emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). The acidified samples are directly aspirated into the instrument without a digestion. Calcium is analyzed at 317.933 nm and at 315.887 nm and viewed axially for low-level analysis and radially for high level analysis.The detection limit for calcium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.The detection limit for iron is 0.02 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 20 ppm.The detection limit for magnesium is 0.03 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.The detection limit for manganese is 0.01 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 2 ppm.The detection limit for potassium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 10 ppm.The detection limit for sodium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.Method Log: Prior to January 2002, Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese were determined on a Perkin-Elmer model 503 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lanthanum at a 0.8percent concentration was added as a matrix modifier to suppress chemical interferences. From January 2002 to present, samples are analyzed for calcium on a Perkin-Elmer model 4300 DV ICP.Dissolved reactive silica is determined by the Heteropoly Blue Method and the absorption is measured at 820 nm.The detection limit for silicon is 6 ppb and the analytical range is 15000 ppb.Method Log These determinations were performed manually using a Bausch and Lomb Spectrophotometer from the beginning of the project until April 1984. From 1984 through 2005, dissolved reactive silicon was determined on a Technicon Auto Analyzer II. From January 2006 to present, samples are run on an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II Autoanalyzer.
Short Name
LPPCHEM1
Version Number
9

Allequash Creek sonde measurements summer 2006

Abstract
A sonde was used to measure conductivity, do, oxygen saturation, water temperature, pH, and oxidation-reduction potential. Sampling took place in Allequash creek above and below a bog and close to the lake. Sampling Frequency: 15 minutes Number of sites: 3
Core Areas
Dataset ID
253
Data Sources
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
see abstract for methods used.
Short Name
LOTTIG1
Version Number
28

Zooplankton of Small Lakes and Wetland Ponds in Wisconsin - North Temperate Lakes LTER 1996

Abstract
We sampled zooplankton communities from 54 small water bodies distributed throughout Wisconsin to evaluate whether a snap-shot of zooplankton community structure during early spring could be used for the purpose of differentiating lakes from wetlands. We collected a single set of zooplankton and water chemistry data during a one-month time window (synchronized from south to north across the state) from an open water site in each basin as a means to minimize and standardize sampling effort and to minimize cascading effects arising from predator-prey interactions with resident and immigrant aquatic insect communities. We identified 53 taxa of zooplankton from 54 sites sampled across Wisconsin. There was an average of 6.83 taxa per site. The zooplankton species were distributed with a great deal of independence. We did not detect significant correlations between number of taxa and geographic region or waterbody size. There was a significant inverse correlation between number of taxa and the concentration of calcium ion, alkalinity and conductivity. One pair of taxa, Lynceus brachyurus and Chaoborus americanus, showed a significant difference in average duration of sites of their respective occurrence. All other pairs of taxa had no significant difference in average latitude, waterbody surface area, total phosphorus, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, alkalinity, conductivity, calcium ion, sulfate, nitrate, silicate or chloride. Taxa were distributed at random among the sites - there were no statistically significant pairs of taxa occurring together or avoiding each other. Multivariate analysis of zooplankton associations showed no evidence of distinct associations that could be used to distinguish lakes from wetlands. Zooplankton community structure appears to be a poor tool for distinguishing between lakes and wetlands, especially at the relatively large scale of Wisconsin (dimension of about 500 km). The data suggest that a small body of water in Wisconsin could be classified as a wetland if it persists in the spring and summer for only about 4 months, and if it is inhabited by Lynceus brachyurus, Eubranchipus bundyi, and if Chaoborus americanus and Chydorus brevilabris are absent. Schell, Jeffery M., Carlos J. Santos-Flores, Paula E. Allen, Brian M. Hunker, Scott Kloehn, Aaron Michelson, Richard A. Lillie, and Stanley I. Dodson. 2001. Physical-chemical influences on vernal zooplankton community structure in small lakes and wetlands of Wisconsin, U.S.A. Hydrobiologia 445:37-50 Number of sites: 54
Creator
Dataset ID
224
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Schell, Jeffery M., Carlos J. Santos-Flores, Paula E. Allen, Brian M. Hunker, Scott Kloehn, Aaron Michelson, Richard A. Lillie, and Stanley I. Dodson. 2001. Physical-chemical influences on vernal zooplankton community structure in small lakes and wetlands of Wisconsin, U.S.A. Hydrobiologia 445:37-50
Short Name
DODSON3
Version Number
25
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