What this tracks
This dataset records pollution levels and water quality issues in Kansas lakes and streams that don’t meet federal clean water standards.
Why it matters to you
If you’re planning to fish in Kansas waters, this data tells you which streams have mercury advisories or low oxygen levels that affect fish populations. Homeowners near water bodies can check for contaminants like nitrates that might affect well water safety. Farmers can see which watersheds have atrazine limits that may impact pesticide runoff plans.
How to read this data
STREAM_NAME — Identifies affected water bodies, like “Unnamed Stream” or specific lake names.
ATRAZINE — Shows herbicide levels (sample value “2025” likely indicates concentration in parts per billion).
E_COLI — Blank in samples means no detected issues, but populated fields would warn of bacterial contamination risks.
DISSOLVED_OXYGEN — Low values here mean fish kills are more likely in that water body.
Try it yourself
Search for your nearest fishing spot or recreational lake in the dataset to check for active contamination warnings before your next outing.