State slashes rates, refunds fees at polluted Grand Lake

ST. MARYS - The state is slashing prices to attract visitors to Ohio's largest inland lake, though the water remains off limits because of toxic algae.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources says it wants to minimize the economic damage to the area around Grand Lake St. Marys in western Ohio. So, through the end of the year, the agency is offering half-price discounts on camping and shelter house rentals at the lake.

Department Director Sean Logan says every dollar spent at the state park adjoining the lake brings benefits to the wider community.

The state on Monday kept an advisory in place warning people against coming in contact with the lake water, which even means no boating. The state is refunding this year's dock rental fees for boats stuck on the lake.