Algae closes Fort Gibson Lake swimming area
BY SUSAN HYLTON World Staff Writer
Saturday, July 09, 2011
7/09/11 at 7:17 AM
Read our continuing coverage of the algae problem.
Algae possibilities bloom.
WAGONER - The Taylor Ferry swim beach at Fort Gibson Lake has been closed after tests confirmed a toxic level of blue-green algae, federal officials said.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spokesman Nate Herring said the blue-green algae poses a moderate risk at one of the lake's more popular recreations areas. Exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, eye irritations, respiratory symptoms and other illnesses.
"As a precaution we decided to close it," Herring said.
Taylor Ferry Marina & Resort is 5 miles east of Wagoner on Oklahoma 51.
Owner Sam Naqvi said he hasn't seen evidence of the blue-green algae, which looks like green paint or scum on the water, but that people do need to be safe.
There are still plenty of ways for people to enjoy the lake without getting in it, he said.
"People can have activities, they just have to be careful around the water. You can fish, go out on the boat, have a cookout around the water," Naqvi said.
Samples taken from the Chouteau Bend area of the lake were determined to be green algae and not toxic.
"It's harmless," Herring said.
Meanwhile, samples are being taken at Lake Tenkiller, where algae blooms were also reported. An advisory has been issued that blue-green algae has been reported but not confirmed as toxic.
"We're asking visitors there to be cautious and avoid contact with scummy, mossy or discolored water," Herring said. "We're doing this as a precaution. Blue-green algae is in all lakes and can occur on any lake at any time, if the conditions are right."
The Grand River Dam Authority's warning to avoid bodily contact with all waters at Grand Lake remains in effect.
Original Print Headline: Algae closes Fort Gibson Lake swimming area
Susan Hylton 918-581-8381
susan.hylton@tulsaworld.com
Associated Images:
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a warning for toxic blue-green algae near Taylor Ferry Beach at Fort Gibson Lake. The beach was closed on Friday, July 8, 2011. JEFF LAUTENBERGER/Tulsa World
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a warning for toxic blue-green algae near Taylor Ferry Beach at Fort Gibson Lake. The beach was closed on Friday, July 8, 2011. JEFF LAUTENBERGER/Tulsa World
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a warning for toxic blue-green algae near Taylor Ferry Beach at Fort Gibson Lake. The beach was closed on Friday, July 8, 2011. JEFF LAUTENBERGER/Tulsa World
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