Algae problem shuts down YMCA camp lake in Ohio

BELLEFONTAINE, Ohio (AP) — Toxic algae has led the YMCA to close the lake at a summer camp in western Ohio not far a major lake with a similar problem.

YMCA of Central Ohio President John Bickley says Silver Lake at Camp Willson near Bellefontaine was put off limits after the discovery of blue-green algae earlier this month. Bickley says one water sample showed an algae-related liver toxin at a level 50 times higher than what’s considered safe for swimmers.

Experts say this summer’s hot and rainy weather has helped to fuel toxic algae in rivers and lakes throughout the state, including Ohio’s largest inland lake. Algae on Grand Lake St. Marys, about 35 miles from the YMCA camp, has prompted the state to warn people not to come in contact with the water.