KDHE Lifts Stream Advisory at Tuttle Creek Lake

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Following the recovery of a submerged fuel tank last week at Tuttle Creek Lake, officials with the Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Wednesday that water quality samples collected by state and federal officials at the lake have shown no fuel-related contaminants above drinking water standards. As a result, a stream advisory issued for Tuttle Creek Cove was rescinded by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Why it matters

The incident involving a fuel cell that broke off a barge at the lake raised concerns about potential environmental contamination, prompting a comprehensive water quality sampling and monitoring plan by state and federal agencies. The lifting of the stream advisory indicates that the lake's water is safe for recreational use.

The details

The fuel cell became separated from the barge due to high winds and strong waves while the barge was stationed in the cove for a second phase demonstration dredging period scheduled to begin March 17 at the lake. The dredging period has since been postponed.

• On March 15, the fuel cell broke off the barge at Tuttle Creek Lake.
• On March 17, the second phase demonstration dredging period at the lake was scheduled to begin, but has since been postponed.
• On March 26, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment rescinded the stream advisory for Tuttle Creek Cove.

What’s next

Officials said the second phase demonstration dredging period at Tuttle Creek Lake has been postponed, but did not provide a specific timeline for when it may be rescheduled.