Springfork Lake Closed Sept. 21 Through Oct. 5

Potentially Hazardous Algae Bloom

Springfork Lake will be closed to the public from Sept. 21, 2021 until Oct. 5, 2021 as the City of Sedalia believes this is in the best interest of public health due to a potentially hazardous algae bloom occurring at the Lake. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources notified the City of the potential bloom on Monday, Sept. 20, 2021. The City is in the process of sampling and testing at different locations around the Lake to determine the type of algae bloom occurring.

The concern is that this bloom may be a blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are microscopic organisms found naturally in all types of water. In warm, nutrient-rich environments, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly, creating blooms that spread across the water’s surface. These blooms can create toxins that are harmful to humans and pets. An algae bloom of this type is not unusual.

Several years ago, the City of Sedalia discontinued use of Springfork Lake as a source of public drinking water. Therefore, this bloom presents no hazard to the drinking water supply.

We apologize for any inconvenience this closure of Springfork Lake may cause, however, in an abundance of caution we believe it is the appropriate action to ensure protection of public health and the environment.