Research : Current

Red tide, Fresh water
Date: August 28, 2003 Location: Athens, OH More Information: [image]

An inland body of water, fed only by small runoff streams, was discovered to have turned a very nearly blood red color during the night of August 28. The reason for this phenomenon has not been determined. Iron levels in the soil, normally the cause of water discoloration such as this, were normal; even if oxidation were the culprit it is highly unlikely that the color would have noticeably changed in a period of 12 hours.

Chemical testing of the water showed no physical abnormalities and no elevated or decreased levels of toxins. The park where the small body of water is located was tested for high levels of chemical fertilizers and was certified to be within normal, safe and acceptable levels on all counts. The results were verified by two independent testing laboratories.

The water spontaneously reverted to its original color two days later with no further events reported.