A representative for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection confirmed Friday that algae growth in Lake Oneida in Oakland Township does not impact the safety of drinking water.

“Algae can affect water in terms of taste or odor, but treatment plants, like the one at Lake Oneida, have DEP-permitted processes and monitoring procedures in place to address surface water contaminants to ensure that public health is protected,” Tom Decker, a spokesman for the department, said on Friday.

Pennsylvania American Water said on Thursday it was addressing taste and odor issues caused by naturally occurring algae growth in the lake, which serves as a reservoir for Butler, East Butler and Saxonburg; and parts of Butler, Center, Oakland and Summit townships.

Decker said that any changes in taste and odor resulting from the algae are “only aesthetic.”

“DEP’s Northwest Region has not received additional reports of algae causing taste and odor issues in 2025; however, these events are not uncommon,” Decker added.

The growth is due to hot weather and elevated levels of nutrients, the company said. The algae — a microscopic plant — produces an odd, but harmless taste or odor.