COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A toxic algae treatment in Ohio's largest inland lake over the summer was successful, the state's Environmental Protection Agency director says.
The agency has released a report that says the 3.3 million gallons of the chemical alum dropped into Grand Lake St. Marys was more successful than anticipated, killing 56 percent of phosphorous in the treated area.
Phosphorous feeds the blue-green toxic algae, which produces a nerve toxin that can sicken humans and kill pets and animals.
Ohio EPA Director Scott Nally calls the results "absolutely exciting," saying the lake was able to stay open all summer because of the treatment.
The toxic algae have caused lake closures and advisories against swimming and boating in the past, leading to decreased tourism at the lake, which sits between Dayton and Toledo.