During the writing of this book, we noticed that no two lakes are identical.  Each has its own distinctive characteristics, setting it apart from other lakes.  Some lakes are excellent dive sites, while others lack some of the more desired features.  We have provided a diver rating system for each lake visited.  This will give you an idea prior to diving if it is really what you are looking for.  Our scale is simple, based on the dive “fin” rating system.  The greater the number of fins, the better the dive.

FOUR FINS:  Excellent dive site.  Full amenities and great diving.

THREE AND A HALF FINS:  Good dive site, lacking one or two amenities.

THREE FINS:  Good dive site, lacking most sought-after amenities.

TWO AND A HALF FINS:  Diving is fair to good, lacking most amenities.

TWO FINS:  Fair diving, with few amenities.

ONE AND A HALF FINS:  Fair diving, with few to no conveniences.

ONE FIN:  Generally poor diving, due to visibility or no conveniences.

In rating the various lakes, we noticed visibility may change from one visit to the next, so the rating should be used only as a reference.  Changes are due to many factors throughout the year.  Some of these are:  wind, spring runoff, and algae.  Algae blooms in some lakes may reduce the visibility, creating conditions that are less than pleasant.