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Algae monitored by Corps of Engineers

Swimming beaches temporarily closed

Staff reporter

Steps are being taken by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure safety for visitors to Marion Reservoir.

All reservoir swimming beaches, except one, were closed from Friday evening until Saturday evening by the Corps due to a concentration of algae.

Terry Holt, park ranger, said Tuesday he had conversations Friday with Kansas Department of Health and Environment regarding Holt's concerns about a high concentration of blue-green algae in beach areas.

"From the discussion, it was decided KDHE would support us posting signs in those areas when they become bad like that," Holt said.

On Tuesday morning, Holt said the highest concentration of algae appeared to be near the dam.

Influenced by wind direction and speed, a concentration of algae may appear in one area and then dissipate or move to another area depending on the wind.

"It kind of just blows around," Holt said, referring to the algae.

A ranger is sent out daily to check specific areas for algae concentration. Satellite images are available and could be used to measure the concentration in areas also, Holt said.

Despite the closed beaches and signs posted through the public areas citing the potential health hazard, the reservoir had a fairly busy weekend, Holt said.

"It didn't seem to affect boaters very much," Holt said. "Memorial Day weekend is always overwhelming, under almost any conditions."

Holt said the overall affect of the algae outbreak is unknown.

"We'll have to look at the impact in the long run," Holt said. He noted that last year's algae outbreak caused a slight decrease in visitation.

At press time, Marion and Hillsboro municipal water plants were pumping water from the reservoir for distribution.

Following last year's outbreak, both cities have taken steps to ensure continued quality water during an outbreak.

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