With the exception of a few low dissolved oxygen values, Inks Lake met or exceeded stream standards throughout 1996. Sedimentation and algae are the main water quality problems in Lake LBJ and are detrimental to navigation and recreation. Although lake residents joined the LCRA to remove much of the debris, considerable debris remains. Submerged trees and branches provide both a base and a nutrient source for algae to grow. Algae blooms are especially prevalent in coves in Sunrise Beach and Granite Shoals.
Algae blooms form a mat along the lake bottom, rise to the surface, die, settle and decompose.
The decomposition produces a foul, rotten egg odor. Pollution complaints on Lake LBJ generally deal with algae blooms. Despite this problem, Lake LBJ generally met or exceeded stream standards in 1996. No fish kills were reported. Sandy Creek and the Llano River, which flow into Lake LBJ, have good water quality.