We were recently interested in measuring turbidity around creeks in our area, so we purchased a turbidity tube online and went out to make some measurements. We soon realized the tube was of no use as the creeks we visited were very small and generally had extremely clear water. So, we will be purchasing an electronic unit to get some real results.

Turbidity is a measurement of water clarity. Turbidity is the degree to which light penetration is blocked by suspended solids. Suspended solids are the materials suspended in the water (soil, sediment, algae, etc.) and affect how deeply light can penetrate.

Excessively turbid water can block sunlight, cause habitat loss, and make it hard for predators to find prey. Also turbid water can impact recreational water use. Sediments fill in spaces between cobbles that is important habitat for aquatic life and may smother fish eggs.

Turbidity may be affected by seasons, such as increased runoff during snowmelt or large rain events. Human activities can increase erosion potential in the watershed and cause the turbidity to increase. Riparian plants along the banks play an important role to increase bank stability and reduce erosion. Large amounts of suspended plant materials such as algae may also increase turbidity.