Division of Water Quality

Otter Creek Reservoir Recreational Monitoring

Otter Creek Reservoir is located in Piute County near Antimony. DEQ’s recreational water quality monitoring checks for two health concerns: Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and Waterborne Pathogens (E. coli). Find the most recent monitoring information below.

Updates

October 31, 2026: Recreational water quality monitoring has ended for the season

Recreational water quality monitoring for this waterbody has ended for the season. Routine monitoring will resume in June 2027. Harmful algal blooms can persist in colder weather, so know what to look for and always check water conditions before recreating. When in doubt, stay out!

If you are experiencing an algae-related illness, call Utah Poison Control at 800-222-1222.

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to harmful algae, contact your veterinarian immediately.

October 1, 2026: Harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring update

GOOD NEWS: Our monitoring team did not see any visible signs of a harmful algal bloom. Learn more about harmful algal blooms.

Site(s) visited: Beach Access

August 17, 2026: Harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring update

BE CAREFUL: A harmful algal bloom is present at Otter Creek Reservoir. Algae in the water may be producing dangerous toxins that can make humans and animals sick.

If you visit the area:

August 14, 2026: Harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring update

BE CAREFUL: Our crew has observed a potentially harmful algal bloom at Otter Creek Reservoir. There could be algae in the water producing dangerous toxins. We collected samples and results are pending. Check back here for updates.

In the meantime we recommend:

  • Do not swim or water ski in areas of algae
  • Avoid areas of algae when boating
  • Clean fish well and discard skin and guts
  • Keep pets and livestock away from the water and shoreline
  • Don't drink the water
  • Know how to recognize a harmful algal bloom

Site(s) sampled: Beach Access, Tamarisk Point Campground

July 29, 2026: Waterborne pathogen (E. coli) monitoring update

GOOD NEWS: E. coli counts were measured below recreational thresholds. Sampling suggests that the water is safe from harmful bacteria and viruses.

Site(s) sampled: Beach Access, Upper Dam

July 15, 2026: Harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring update

GOOD NEWS: Our monitoring team did not see any visible signs of a harmful algal bloom. Learn more about harmful algal blooms.

Site(s) visited: Beach Access, Tamarisk Point Campground

June 16, 2026: Harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring update

GOOD NEWS: Our monitoring team did not see any visible signs of a harmful algal bloom. Learn more about harmful algal blooms.

Site(s) visited: Beach Access

June 12, 2026: Waterborne pathogen (E. coli) monitoring update

GOOD NEWS: E. coli counts were measured below recreational thresholds. Sampling suggests that the water is safe from harmful bacteria and viruses.

Site(s) sampled: Beach Access