Mill Creek Park lakes could reopen next year

  • 2015-12-06
Officials of Mill Creek Park in Youngstown anticipate reopening the park’s lakes some time in 2016.

They closed the lakes in July, after a large number of fish died. According to the article, a number of factors contributed to the problem with the water. In late June, heavy rains caused sewage to enter the lake, contributing to the fish problem. In addition, septic tanks in the area failed, and manure-based fertilizer, along with animal waste, were found in the park and local watershed.

Ryan Tekac, who is with the Mahoning County District Board of Health, said the problems were not confined to the Mill Creek watershed, but could be found throughout the county. He went on to say that this type of thing happens in a watershed area.

Tekac recommends a number of actions. First, local waste water authorities need to monitor the discharge in their communities. In addition, the directors of Mill Creek Park will monitor the restrooms there. They will also keep an eye on the wildlife to stop excess waste from contaminating waterways. Finally, local farmers are being asked to manage their animals’ waste.

Park officials might create Brochures explaining the need for monitoring, and distribute it to local agencies as well as the community. They could also include a projected reopening date for the lakes.
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