WFD Cycle 2 Lake ANC Classification: Acid Neutralizing Capacity Status for UK Lakes

Environment Agency data classifies Acid Neutralizing Capacity (ANC) in lakes as High, Good, or Moderate. This retired dataset is a subset of the WFD Classification Status Cycle 2, focusing on a key physicochemical quality element. ANC is calculated using alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, and pH, with classification based purely on available chemical data.

Use Cases

• Assess lake acidification risk based on Acid Neutralizing Capacity (ANC) classification.
• Evaluate physicochemical status for water bodies using ANC alongside ammonia, pH, total phosphorus, and dissolved oxygen.
• Determine overall water body status by combining ANC-derived physicochemical status with ecological status data.

Strengths

• Classification data is provided by the authoritative Environment Agency.
• ANC status is defined using three clear categories: High, Good, or Moderate.
• The dataset is structured in an XLSX (Excel) format, which is widely accessible.

Limitations

• The dataset has been retired and superseded by a newer record, indicating it is not the current version.
• Row count and dataset size are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.

Provenance

Source

Environment Agency

Collection Method

Likely contains classification data derived from chemical monitoring of lake water bodies.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-07-17 15:08:18.580078; freshness should be verified as the dataset is retired.

Geography

Likely covers lakes in the United Kingdom, inferred from the 'uk_data' platform and authoring organization.