Sodium and potassium - Understanding Lake Data

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Since natural levels of sodium and potassium ions in soil and water are very low, their presence may indicate lake pollution caused by human activities. Sodium is often associated with chloride. It finds its way into lakes from road salt, fertilizers, and human and animal waste. Potassium is the key component of commonly-used potash fertilizer, and is abundant in animal waste.

Soils retain sodium and potassium to a greater degree than chloride or nitrate; therefore, sodium and potassium are not as useful as pollution indicators. Increasing sodium and potassium values over time can mean there are long-term effects caused by pollution. Although not normally toxic themselves, these compounds strongly indicate possible contamination from more damaging compounds.

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For more information on this topic, contact:

James Vennie
Watershed Management
(608) 266-2212


Lakes Partnership | Watershed Management | Fish Wisconsin | Fisheries Management

Last Revised: Thursday January 25 2007