City Of Oklahoma City: Blue-Green Algae Present In Oklahoma City's Lake Hefner

Press release from the City of Oklahoma City:

06/28/2021 10:06 AM

This summer’s recent rainfall events are having an impact on Lake Hefner, with blue-green algae now present.

The thick, green algae along the water’s edge is harmless. But blue-green algae blooms can produce toxins that can be harmful to people and animals. Utilities Department staff have been spot-treating areas to prevent algae growth.

Swimming is the most obvious exposure risk to blue-green algae, but swimming isn’t allowed on Oklahoma City lakes. But people boating, fishing and otherwise enjoying the lake’s recreational opportunities should take precautions and avoid areas with visible algae accumulation.

It’s important to:

Blue-green algae are microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams in low levels. But the algae can become more abundant during warm, calm and sunny weather.

Lake Hefner is one of Oklahoma City’s seven drinking water reservoirs. The City’s drinking water remains safe to drink. The treatment process brings water into the plant from well below where the algae blooms are. Any algae that enters the treatment process is removed, along with all other toxins, before water goes into our water mains and to your tap.

Visit okc.gov/water for more information on the Utilities Department and your drinking water.

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Media Contact
Malarie Gotcher
(405) 297-3380
malarie.gotcher@okc.gov

This press release was produced by the City of Oklahoma City. The views expressed here are the author’s own.