Lake shops happy without algae scare

As of early July, the Oklahoma Tourism website’s research shows several Oklahoma lakes have tested positive again for the blue green algae however the levels are below the World Heath Organization’s threshold. 

At Lake Tenkiller, the Elk Creek area should be avoided.  At Fort Gibson, the Rocky Point Beach area should also be avoided, and the same goes for Lake Eufaula’s Porum Landing. 

People are avoiding those areas and still swimming and celebrating America’s birthday in other parts of the lakes.  At Fort Gibson’s Sequoyah Bay Marina hundreds turned out on July 4^th. 

“It makes me a feel a lot safer, especially with the kids, not having to worry about it,” said father Richie Carlton. 

Last year Carlton did not come out to Fort Gibson Lake because of the dangerous algae. 

“I tried to stay away from the lake last year,” said Carlton. 

“We only went like three times last year because of it,” said Connor Scott. 

“We stopped coming here because of the blue green algae,” said Bo Scott. 

It was not all of Fort Gibson Lake last summer that was affected by the blue green algae.  It was only Rocky point Beach, the same area as this year that has the low levels. 

“We've been out 10-12 times!” said a couple of new lakegoers. 

“We feel a lot better about getting in the water, not worry about getting sick, “ said Stephen Crank. 

“People panic, we don't and there is nothing to worry about this year,” said Teresa Holdridge. 

Last year her son cut himself in Fort Gibson Lake and went to the doctor to get it looked at for any blue green algae infection. 

“He dove off the bank,” said Holdridge.  “He went to the doctor had it check out and there is nothing to worry about.” 

She’s not worried this year either. 

“There's a lot more people out here,” said Carlton.  “It's awesome couldn't ask for anything better.” 

If you want to check your area lake for any dangers go to:

http://www.travelok.com/checkmyoklake/learn