Safeguarding Our Drinking Water: The Role of Turbidity, TSS, and Water Clarity

Are you noticing your favourite lake looking murkier than usual? You're not alone. The clarity of our lakes is crucial for both ecological health and recreational enjoyment. But what exactly causes that cloudy appearance? Let's dive into the world of turbidity and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and explore their impact on our precious waterways. 

What are Turbidity and TSS? 

What's flowing from your tap and into our lakes?

Turbidity, in simple terms, is the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by large numbers of individual particles that are generally invisible to the naked1 eye. Think of it as how much light can pass through the water. TSS, or Total Suspended Solids, measures the actual amount of solid material suspended in the water column. These solids can include everything from clay and silt to organic matter and algae. 

How Are They Related? 

TSS directly influences turbidity. The more suspended solids in the water, the less light can penetrate, resulting in higher turbidity. Essentially, TSS is the "stuff" that makes the water turbid. 

The Impact on Our Lakes 

Beauty and balance: Exploring clarity in our lakes

Reduced water clarity has significant consequences: 

• Impact on Aquatic Life: Fish and other aquatic organisms rely on clear water for visibility to feed and avoid predators. High turbidity limits their ability to navigate and survive. 

• Disrupted Photosynthesis: Aquatic plants need sunlight for photosynthesis. Turbid water blocks sunlight, hindering plant growth and disrupting the entire food chain. 

• Reduced Recreational Value: Who wants to swim, fish, or boat in a murky lake? High turbidity diminishes the aesthetic appeal and recreational value of our waterways. 

  
  

Causes of Increased TSS 

Both natural and human activities contribute to increased TSS: 

• Erosion from shorelines and land runoff 

• Stormwater runoff carries sediment and pollutants 

• Harmful Algal Blooms that release large amounts of organic matter. 

• Human activities like construction and agriculture. 

The Importance of Clear Lakes 

Clear lakes are essential for healthy ecosystems and human enjoyment. They support biodiversity, provide clean water, and offer recreational opportunities. 

Hydro Synergy's Solution 

One major contributor to high TSS is algal blooms. Hydro Synergy's ultrasonic technology offers a sustainable solution by controlling algae growth, leading to improved water clarity and reduced TSS. By addressing algae, we are addressing a major source of turbid water dangers. 

Concerned about lake clarity and turbidity in your local waters? Discover how Hydro Synergy's ultrasonic technology offers effective algae control, tackling a key source of TSS and improving water quality across New Zealand.

Get in touch today to discuss your water treatment needs: email us at support@hydrosynergy.co.nz or give us a ring on 0800 - NOALGAE (6625423).