The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation hosted its Watershed Symposium on October 25, 2025, where Garrett County’s Watershed Coordinator and Deep Creek Lake Special Projects staff presented updates on Deep Creek Lake water quality and progress on implementing the Deep Creek Watershed Management Plan.
The symposium focused on the long-term health and management of Deep Creek Lake and featured presentations from county and state management agencies, along with invited experts in watershed hydrology and wastewater engineering. The event brought together local, state, and regional experts to share research, data, and perspectives on how the lake has changed over time and what can be done to protect it for future generations.
Key Findings from the DNR Data (2009–2024) Include:
- Land use in the watershed remains largely forested (about 60%), which helps protect water quality. However, impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking areas, though still relatively low at about 4%, are increasing and should be closely monitored.
- Nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), which fuel algae growth, are increasing in some areas of the lake, particularly in the southern end and in coves such as Cherry Cove and Hoop Pole.
- Water clarity (a “really great indicator” of overall lake condition) is declining across much of the lake, meaning sunlight penetrates less deeply. This can affect underwater plants and overall lake health.
- Algae levels remain low overall, but trends show gradual increases, especially in the southern portions of the lake.
- Bottom dissolved oxygen levels are declining in some deep areas, particularly during summer months, which can stress fish and aquatic life.
- Water temperatures have increased by about one degree Fahrenheit at some monitoring sites, consistent with statewide trends (increasing 1-3 degrees). Warmer water holds less oxygen and can accelerate water quality challenges.
Read more on the webpage: https://deepcreekwatershedfoundation.org/2025-deep-creek-watershed-foundation-symposium/
Written by Garrett County Government.