May 20, 2026 Lake Assessment
This weeks assessment of Lake Mohawk and surrounding watershed revealed several new and interesting observations which included seeing an albino deer in the wetland area of bays 9/10, identifying a freshwater clam commonly known as the Asian clam on the West Beach shoreline, and noting water clarity differences that varied from turbid in the southern portions of the lake to significantly clearer in the northern portions of the lake. A significant source of soil runoff into the lake from the Main Beach drainage area during a significant rain event was also observed. Paul Mickley initiated his selective nuisance aquatic plant control of watermilfoil in the back of bay 3 and throughout bays 6 and 7. Watermilfoil is an exotic aquatic plant that has a high potential to spread throughout the lake if left unchecked. This plant however does provide some benefits to the overall ecology of the lake as discussed on my lake ecology page.
Albino Deer – While I have heard many stories of an albino deer at Lake Mohawk, I have never seen it until Wednesday May 20th standing in the middle of the wetland area of bays 9/10. Simply a rare site that was truly a joy to observe.
Asian Clam – A relatively small freshwater clam known as the Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) was identified on the shoreline of West Beach. This invasive clam has an interesting history and ecological significance that is fully described on the following Wikipedia link – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corbicula_fluminea. In summary, this clam has negatively impacted many aquatic ecosystems throughout the world. One of the most significant impacts as it pertains to Lake Mohawk is the process of “bioturbation” (described in the Wikipedia article) which basically means it can suspend sedimentary nitrogen and phosphorus into the water column which contributes to cyanobacteria blooms. Fortunately in my opinion, the relative abundance of this clam is minimal thanks in part to the drawdown procedure that Lake Mohawk uses to control lake levels. Invasive species of many taxa are common throughout all lakes and terrestrial environments throughout Ohio and the world in general.
Water Clarity (transparency) – is perhaps one of the most influential aspects of water quality that impacts the overall aquatic ecology of Lake Mohawk. Water clarity can be influenced by both organic and inorganic substances ranging from phytoplankton, zooplankton, etc. (microscopic plants and animals) (organic) to soil particles containing nitrogen, phosphorus, etc. (inorganic). Early water clarity at Lake Mohawk often determines what type of lake season the lake will have in terms of being dominated by either submersed aquatic plants OR by phytoplankton such as blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). Heavy spring precipitation that causes a rapid rise in lake levels from the winter drawdown of about 42 inches brings with it reduced water clarity and associated increased depth. Drawdown inhibits the establishment of rooted aquatic plants to about 3-4 feet all around the perimeter of the lake with the exception of the exotic summer aquatic plant known as Brittle naiad (Najas minor). Brittle naiad germinates from overwintering seeds and is very common in lakes that use drawdown during winter months. Shading from low water clarity prohibits many species of native aquatic plants from becoming established at deeper depths of the lake. This leads to increases in phytoplankton that further inhibits the establishment of aquatic plants that are not only desirable for a healthy fisheries but also as a natural control for algal blooms. (nutrient competition and sediment stabilization)
fish spawning beds
Soil Runoff – One major factor that can affect water clarity and ultimately water fertility comes from runoff within the watershed. Direct runoff from the watershed not only reduces water clarity, it also brings with it many nutrients such as phosphorus which contribute to summer blue green algae blooms. Water depth over time is also reduced which can negatively impact the lake in a variety of ways. The runoff shown in these photos is coming from some source within the eastern side of Lake Mohawk’s watershed. It could be temporary runoff from a nearby construction project or other source yet to be identified.
Paul Mickley is in the process of selectively controlling areas of watermilfoil especially in southern portions of the lake. This control process will be ongoing throughout the season in a manner which minimizes negative impacts and actually promotes the growth of native aquatic plant species.
