An 18-month study on Lake Chicot, Arkansas, has shown that spectral reflectance can be used to estimate the concentration of suspended solids in the surface water. Wavelengths between 700 and 900 nm give the best estimate of the concentration of suspended solids. This study shows that it should be possible to estimate the concentration of suspended solids in the surface water of Lake Chicot using remote sensing technology. Thus Landsat images, aerial photography, or sensors mounted directly over the water surface transmitting data could give a reservoir manager valuable data about suspended solids concentration that would be useful in making decisions on the management of water inflow to a lake or reservoir to control water quality.