Algal Bloom Temporarily Close Scofield Reservoir

Scofield State Park

Update: As of September 15, 2016, Scofield Reservoir has reopened to anglers and boaters. The Health Department determined toxin levels have decreased enough to no longer pose a public health threat to on-water recreational users. 

Salt Lake City (Aug. 31, 2016) – Due to harmful algal bloom at Scofield Reservoir that may pose health risks to the public and animals, Southeastern Utah District Health Dept., Department of Environmental Quality, and Utah State Parks, have announced restricted recreational use of the reservoir.

Recreational users of the lake, including, boaters, paddlers, swimmer and anglers, will not be allowed on the water until toxins subside. Scofield State Park campgrounds, however, will remain open for public use. Campers should keep their pets out of the water.

Scofield State Park

“Our primary concern is always public safety and we support the Health Department’s decision to temporarily close the reservoir,” said Scofield State Park Manager Jonathan Hunt. “While this closure may be inconvenient to boaters and anglers planning to come here for the holiday weekend, we hope they will visit other state parks in the region like Huntington and Millsite State Parks.”

Algae occurs naturally in lakes and reservoirs across the country and can undergo seasonal blooms that are not necessarily harmful.

Under the right conditions harmful algal blooms can develop. Such conditions include low water levels, warm water temperatures, stagnant conditions and nutrient deposits like phosphate.
Click Here For More Details & The DEQ Press Release