Improvements will stem algae growth at Ohio lake

MILLERSBURG, Ohio (AP) — Ohio is spending $167,000 to try to stop the growth of harmful algae blooms in one of central Ohio’s largest lakes.

The state is spending the money for storm-water control features at Buckeye Lake that should help reduce runoff that can lead to the toxic algae growth.

The health of 3,300-acre lake east of Columbus is critical to the area’s tourism economy.

The work will involve special paving and drainage systems at parking lots that will allow storm water to run into new wetlands near each site instead of into the lake.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is putting up $100,000 for the project. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is paying the rest. It’s expected to be done by July 1.