Advisory Lifted for Harmful Algal Blooms at Herrington Lake by Kentucky Division of Water
After two consecutive weeks of toxin levels at 19 locations around Herrington Lake remaining below or only marginally above detectable levels, the harmful algal bloom (HAB) recreational advisory has been lifted as of July 5, 2025.
This decision comes after initial reports of HABs near Tanyard Branch and Paradise Camp (also known as Redgate), which had prompted earlier advisories. The improvement in water quality is a welcome development for lake users who are now encouraged to resume normal recreational activities.
However, it is important to remain cautious about the potential for future blooms. Visual signs of HABs include slicks that look like opaque, bright-green paint from a distance and up close, the algae can appear grainy and sawdust-like.
Drinking water sourced from Herrington Lake remains safe and is under close monitoring. For ongoing information and updates, the Kentucky Division of Water’s HAB webpage provides current advisories and detailed guidance.
If you suspect a harmful algal bloom, you can report it to the Kentucky Division of Water in the following ways:
- Call 502-564-3410 - Email [email protected] - For after-hours or weekend concerns: call the 24-hour hotline at 502-564-2380 or 1-800-928-2380.
Herrington Lake, the deepest lake in Kentucky, is located in Mercer, Garrard, and Boyle counties. The Division of Water will continue to assess conditions at the lake and provide updates as necessary.
The Kentucky Division of Water and the Department for Public Health have jointly made this decision, ensuring the safety and well-being of lake users. As we move forward, it is essential to remain vigilant and report any suspected HABs to the appropriate authorities.
- The improvement in the health-and-wellness of Herrington Lake users is a testament to the effectiveness of environmental-science efforts in addressing the harmful algal bloom (HAB) issue.
- As we continue to monitor water quality, it's crucial to remember that climate-change can potentially influence future HAB occurrences, emphasizing the importance of science in predicting and managing such events.
- In light of the lifted HAB advisory, residents of Kentucky are encouraged to appreciate the cleaner environment while remaining vigilant about the potential risks, ensuring a balance between enjoyment and caution.
