Transparency is the measure of the water clarity and how far down in the water column light is able to penetrate.  Generally, the greater the transparency, the better the overall water quality.  The minimum historical transparency is very low and suggests that Pattee Pond has experienced algal blooms in the past. Historically, there has been natural fluctuations in the transparency, however the readings in Pattee Pond have been steadily improving and the lake now enjoys a higher transparency than previously, suggesting that the water quality has improved, which can be seen by comparing our readings with those found in 1985.  [Click for next slide]