An area lake will remain closed to the public for the time being.

Officials in the City of Sedalia say after evaluating the condition of Springfork Lake on Friday, July 15, and Monday, July 18, it was determined that the lake will remain closed to the public through at least July 25.

The City plans to continue evaluating the lake’s condition in relation to the continued presence of an algae bloom to determine a reopening date for public recreational use.

The City of Sedalia believes the closing of the lake until the algae bloom has dissipated is in the best interest of public health due to the continuing concerns related to the algae bloom occurring at the lake.

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.

City officials add, “We apologize for any inconvenience 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.”