Toxic lake cancels race, harms resident

CELINA, Ohio (WANE) - Ohio Governor Ted Strickland and EPA officials spoke to concerned citizens in Celina, Ohio Friday about toxic algae in the Grand Lake Saint Mary's.  The meeting was held at Wright State University's Lake campus. 

"We urge common sense and caution as we continue to warn residents and visitors about the health risks of the toxins in this water," said Stickland.

Many local citizens were furious. They've lost money and said their homes are depreciating in value. Governor Stickland has advised them not to go in or on the lake at any time.

"I'll lose over a million and a half dollars what you said here," screamed one marina owner.

"We're already down $2.7 million over a period of two years with this announced problem that they started back in May," said marina owner Buzz Goodwin.  "But the problem's been going on for many years since then."

Earlier, Celina city officials didn't think the lake's algae levels were as dangerous as the EPA was making them out to be.  Plus the Governor's Cup Regatta , which was planned for the end of August, was still on.

But with Governor Strickland's announcement along with the news that the Ohio DNR isn't allowed to go on the water, officials have now canceled the boat race.  That means 20,000-30,000 people won't visit Celina for the annual event.

"Businesses have struggled, homes have lost value and families have lost the opportunity to create memories together," said Strickland.

Some of the symptoms of toxic algae are:

• Rashes
• Ear and nose irritation
• Nerve problems
• Memory loss
• Dizziness
   

One couple at the meeting knew the dangers first hand. The husband is seriously ill and their dog died from drinking the water in Grand Lake Saint Mary's.

The EPA plans to continue testing the waters at the lake.  They're working on using something called alum to kill the toxic algae and clean the water.

But officials said it may take several years and they don't have enough money to do it as fast as folks in Celina are hoping.