Kentucky Division of Water lifts advisory for harmful aglal blooms at Herrington Lake


The Kentucky Division of Water & Department for Public Health have lifted the harmful algal bloom recreational advisory at Herrington Lake based on recent sampling results.
 
The latest testing indicates that toxin levels measured at 19 locations have remained below or only marginally above detectable levels for two consecutive weeks. This is a significant decline from initial toxin levels measured in proximity to Tanyard Branch and Paradise Camp, also known as Redgate, following a report of suspected HABs by local residents.

Herrington Lake — as it was (Photo provided)

Lake users are encouraged to return to normal recreational activities at Herrington Lake but remain cautious of the potential for blooms in the future and aware of the visual indications that a HAB may be present. From a distance, HABs can appear as slicks of opaque, bright-green paint, but closer inspection often reveals a grainy, sawdust-like appearance.
 
The drinking water supplied from Herrington Lake remains safe and is closely monitored. The Division of Water will continue to assess conditions at the lake and provide updates as necessary.
  
If you suspect a harmful algal bloom, please report it to the Division of Water by calling 502-564-3410 or emailing water@ky.gov. For after-hours and weekend concerns, you can reach the 24-hour hotline at 502-564-2380 or 1-800-928-2380.
 
For more information about harmful algal blooms and updated advisories in Kentucky, please visit the Division of Water’s HAB webpage and check current advisories.

Herrington Lake is located in Mercer, Garrard, and Boyle counties and is the deepest lake in Kentucky.

Examples of differernt harmful algal blooms IKentucky Division of Water photos)