Choctaw Lake

A Living Legacy

Lake Water Testing Update

Hello,

Two weeks ago, the Lake Water Committee began performing weekly observations. Overall, the lake water is in good condition. There is algae growth as evidenced by the green tint in the water. This is normal during the summer months.

Our focus is primarily on the growth of Blue-Green algae and the level of the toxin called Microcystin. Although we believe our current levels are very low, we did send in a sample this week to measure our Microcystin levels. The results of this sample will provide a baseline for future testing throughout the summer. The results will be shared with the community as we receive them.

If you are not familiar with Blue-Green Algae, please take a few minutes to read the picture below and visit the website posted on the sign. This sign is posted at the beach, the Marina launch ramp, and at the Dam.

Lake Water Quality Update

Lake water samples were taken on June 29th.  The samples were sent into the lab to test for microcystin levels.  The samples were pulled prior to the treatment on the 29th.

We took samples at the beach and in George’s Fork cove.

Results:

  • Beach
    • 6/29/2020   .813 ug/L
      6/22/2020   .280 ug/L 
      6/15/2020   .271 ug/L
  • George’s Fork:
    • 6/29/2020   1.795 ug/L          
    • 6/22/2020   .340 ug/L
    • 6/15/2020   .280 ug/L

Summary:

We experienced an increase in Microcystin over the prior week. The positive news is that we are still well below the level required for the first advisory. Based on observations taken on July 1st, the lake seemed to have responded well to the treatment on Monday. At this point, it appears that water will be in good shape for the holiday weekend! We will continue to keep a close eye on the conditions. The upcoming forecast is very conducive to algae growth. Keep an eye on the conditions each time you enter. When in doubt stay out.

Thank you,

LWQ Committee

Ohio Health Department Advisory Requirements. 

  • Recreational Public Health Advisory: 6 Ug/L
    • A sign is posted on beaches warning that an algal bloom is present and/or algal toxins have been detected. Swimming or wading is not recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women, those with certain medical conditions, and pets. 
  • Elevated Recreational Public Health Advisory: 20 Ug/L
    • A sign is posted on beaches warning algal toxins at unsafe levels have been detected and that all contact with the water should be avoided.

Algae Awareness: Pets, young children, and adults.

The previous article stated that overall our toxin levels are well below the first advisory. It is still very important that you are aware of what to look for and what to avoid.

The above sign is posted at the beach, the dam, and at the marina. Be sure you and your guest review. If you live on the water, be sure to become familiar with the pictures. It is advised to avoid playing in the water where you see algae growth similar to the pictures above. It is also advised to prevent your dogs from playing in the lake or drinking from the lake when these conditions are present.

Even if our toxins are low for the entire lake, they can be higher, and hazardous, in the isolated areas where heavy accumulations happen.

Be safe, be aware, and have fun. If you have any questions, please feel free to give your Property Manager Mike Casimir a call. 740-837-0833

Lake Water Observations and Testing

The Lake Water Quality Committee has begun monitoring the lake water conditions and algae activity. This past week, we did observe algae growth starting. We will continue to monitor and respond accordingly.

Please take time to read the signs posted at the beach, marina, and the dam. These signs provide information on what to look for when using the lake water.

Not all algae are bad. However, there are types of algae that produce toxins that can be harmful when at a certain limit. Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can produce a toxin called Microcystin. This is the toxin we test for when we send water samples into the lab.

If you are in doubt about the water conditions that you see, it is advised that you stay out.

The Lake Water Committee will do our best to keep you up to date on conditions. We will share the Microcystin test results when they are taken.

Thank you

Message from the Lake Water Quality Committee

As many know, a treatment was made on August 16th to knock down algae growth, and to prevent Microcystin levels from increasing. This week we received our lab results from samples taken on August 20th. The treatment produced desired results. The levels dropped from 1.54 ppb to 0.30 ppb. We are well below the lowest warning level of 6.0 ppb.

Make some memories on the water this weekend! The lake water is in great shape.

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