Water activities halted on Liberty Lake due to algae bloom treatment

Despite the peak season for water activities at Liberty Lake, recreational activity is being held up with algae bloom treatment.

According to City officials, the issue at Liberty Lake will run its course as the algae use up its fuel supply of phosphates (fertilizers, etc.) in the water.

The City has performed a single treatment process on the Lake in hopes to speed up the process and will follow up with additional treatments as needed.

“We are currently prohibiting swimming at Liberty Lake as well as keeping pets out of the water as we experience the die-off of the algae. These restrictions are simply precautionary measures only and will remain in effect temporarily,” a City spokesperson said.

The drinking water is not affected by this problem and remains safe for consumption.

All of our other water resources, including the raw water at the water treatment plant, have not been impacted by the algae bloom.

The City is and has been utilizing Guthrie Lake as the raw water source for current operations. 

“We are confident that this has occurred due to low water levels, increasing water temperatures, the timing of the rains, stormwater runoff from surrounding fields, and natural spring algae bloom,” the spokesperson stated.

“The City recently had a visit from ODEQ, and they were very pleased with all of the proactive steps that have been taken. Temporary signage is being placed around the lake prohibiting recreational use at this time.”

Liberty Lake activities that are temporarily prohibited, include swimming/wading by humans or animals, tubing/water skiing/wakeboarding, and watercraft use.

Liberty Lake activities that will continue to be offered, include fishing on banks, camping hiking/bicycling, and equestrian usage.