On Thursday, July 6th, the Taylorville Park Board held a special meeting to hear the Midwest Environmental Report from July 31st, recited by Maintenance Superintendent Ben Dempsey.

In Dempsey’s report he spoke about the pond and the ongoing algae and moss issue. Dempsey spoke with Tad Locker from Wildlife and Fisheries and was told by Locker that the algae on the North Pond is not an isolated incident as Wildlife and Fisheries have been responding to the same issue throughout the state of Illinois. Dempsey also mentioned that the pond at this time is too far gone to use chemicals to clear the waters, and they should let the problem sit for now. Once fall hits, a plan to skim the surface of the water will take effect.

Dempsey also stated that some of the fish within the pond have died, but not all of them due to the algae issue. It was also reported that once winter hits, the remaining algae that couldn’t be skimmed off will die off. Dempsey also said that the algae derived from natural causes. 

To do the skimming job on the pond, Dempsey mentioned that they will need a better boat to do the task. Dempsey explained to the board that he found a 12-foot pontoon boat in Effingham that will cost around $5,200 after the finalized purchase. The $5,200 will cover the boat, and the title and registration.

The board approved the purchase of the pontoon boat with all yes votes.

Keep following along with taylorvilledailynews.com for updates after the next park board meeting.