Save The Lake Commission: Town Hall Meeting With Blue Green Algae

Volunteer Reporter: James Craycraft - James is a Springfield High School Graduate and business owner in Springfield Township

Attending the most recent town hall meeting in Springfield Township, I was taken aback to learn the reason behind the lake's closure to the public. Having lived in this township for years, it was surprising to discover the severity of the situation.

Background Info

Blue-green algae blooms have infested Springfield Lake, causing significant harm to both the environment and public health. These blooms deplete oxygen levels in the water, produce toxins detrimental to aquatic life, and pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Immediate action is essential to safeguard the ecosystem and ensure community safety.

Potential solutions to mitigate this issue include nutrient control measures, early detection systems, and public awareness campaigns. Algae blooms can also have economic repercussions, deterring tourists and impacting local businesses. Implementing nutrient management strategies and regular monitoring can help prevent and address the harmful effects of blue-green algae blooms.

What Actually Happened at the Meeting

During the town hall meeting, a company called Blue Green Algae Technologies presented a potential solution to the algae problem and answered questions from the public.

We were fortunate to have a representative from the company fly in to speak with various stakeholders, including the Springfield Township Trustees and the Mayor of Lakemore. The meeting began with Trustee Jeremy Caudill introducing the event. The representative then took over, presenting data on the lake sourced from the Ohio state website.

He provided a comprehensive overview of his company's background, its expertise, and its prior success in managing similar issues. He outlined a detailed plan for addressing the algae blooms in Springfield Lake, drawing on his experience with other lakes. Following his presentation, the floor was opened for questions from the audience.

One pertinent question was whether Blue Green Algae Technologies would assist the Village and Township in applying for grants to fund the solution. The answer was a straightforward yes.

Where We Are At Now

As it stands, we are now waiting for Springfield Township and the Village of Lakemore to decide whether to proceed with the proposed solution from Blue Green Algae Technologies. Given their successful track record, such as the resolution of the algae issue at Chippewa Lake, there is hope that our public officials will carefully consider the data and make the best decision for all residents of Springfield Township and the Village of Lakemore.