The algal bloom advisories in effect at two Summit County reservoirs were lifted today.
The Summit County Health Department reports that the most recent testing of the Rockport and Echo reservoir waters has determined that the blooms are now below harmful levels and all recreational activities may be safely resumed.
On October 18th, the County Health Department and Utah Dept. of Environmental Quality issued a warning for the toxic algae growths in the two reservoirs. Both reservoirs remained closed until Wednesday when the results showed the harmful blooms were no longer present.
The toxic algae was present only in small, localized areas, and didn’t affect the entire bodies of water.
While blooms of this type are uncommon in northern Utah during the late fall, a variety of factors can cause growths that are more regularly seen in warmer months. According to a statement from the county health department, the presence of algae doesn’t always indicate contamination or pose a threat to public health.