Lake Clay
Lake Clay is a large, sandy-bottomed ridge type lake located to the east of US 27 just north of the Town of Lake Placid. Water quality, based on Lakewatch data, is good in Lake Clay. Phosphorus levels range from 5 to 24 ppb (parts per billion) and average 12 ppb - which is fair to good for a lake of this type. Nitrogen levels are also typical for a ridge lake, ranging from 330 to 740 ppb and averaging 480 ppb. Algae levels, as measured by the chlorophyll concentration in the water, remain fairly low as a result of the fairly low nutrient levels. Chlorophyll ranges from 1 to 17 ppb and averages only 6 ppb. Water clarity, as measured by the depth to which a standardized 'secchi' disc can be seen when lowered into the water, declines when algae populations increase. Secchi depths range from 2 to 19 feet and average 10 feet, making Lake Clay a fairly clear lake. Water quality in Lake Clay shows natural fluctuations over time and does not appear to have changed much since sampling began in 1995. However, this lake is under pressure from development around the lake and in canals as well as from stormwater runoff from US 27. Click here to view water quality data by year.
There are two boat ramps on Lake Clay. One ramp is on the west side of the lake at the end of Miller Road. The other ramp is located on the east side of the lake, where Oak Avenue and Lake Clay Drive intersect.
Historic aerial photo gallery 1944-2002
Lakewatch water quality through 1999