Phosphorous, along with nitrogen, is an essential nutrient for plants and animals. As a major component in most fertilizers, runoff or erosion can lead to too much phosphorous in the water, and the depletion of oxygen from excessive aquatic growth. Called eutrophication, it can result in animal die-off , toxins and foul water. Therefore the monitoring of phosphate levels in water is extremely important.
The Glen Lake Association collects water samples every spring and fall and sends them to Lansing where they are tested for phosphorous levels which are then compared with other lakes in the State of Michigan. This provides the GLA with valuable and comparable data for our water quality monitoring program.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HYNzz27pPc&feature=youtu.be