The Upper Saranac Environmental Monitoring Platform is back in the water and once again delivering near real-time meteorological and water quality data to the public—offering a continuous view of changing lake conditions. The platform has transformed how Upper Saranac Lake is observed, capturing high-frequency information on its physical, chemical, biological, and meteorological characteristics.
Moored in 90 feet of water in the lake’s South Basin, the platform builds on a long-standing monitoring program in the Adirondacks, enhancing both the precision and accessibility of data collection. From temperature and weather conditions to key water quality indicators, the system provides a steady stream of information that supports ongoing research and informed lake management.
This platform is one component of a broader, long-term monitoring effort. In collaboration with the Adirondack Watershed Institute at Paul Smith’s College, the Upper Saranac Foundation continues to track water quality trends through a dataset spanning more than 30 years. This work is complemented by stream monitoring throughout the watershed, helping to identify nutrient and pollutant inputs before they reach the lake and providing critical insight into how land use and runoff influence water quality.
That record highlights both progress and emerging challenges. Encouragingly, key indicators of eutrophication—particularly total phosphorus—have declined over time, and overall lake productivity is now relatively stable. These improvements are attributed in part to reductions in phosphorus discharge from the NYS Fish Hatchery.
At the same time, water clarity has decreased despite stable productivity, suggesting that other factors—such as recovery from acidification—are influencing lake conditions. The lake has become less acidic over time, and its buffering capacity has improved, signaling continued recovery from historic acid deposition.
Salinization, however, remains an increasing concern. Salt concentrations continue to rise as road salt accumulates in the watershed and enters the lake through runoff and groundwater. In some areas, levels now exceed thresholds harmful to aquatic life, with potential implications for nearby drinking water wells.
By pairing real-time lake monitoring with tributary stream data and decades of long-term records, the Upper Saranac water quality monitoring strengthens our ability to understand change, respond to emerging threats, and guide science-based stewardship.
Explore the live data and learn more on our website found here.
