In summary, Tenkiller Ferry Lake was classified as eutrophic, indicative of high primary
productivity and nutrient levels (Plate 113). Water clarity was excellent at this lake primarily due
to the absence of inorganic turbidity levels that are commonly seen in Oklahoma reservoirs.
The lake was fully supporting its Aesthetics beneficial use based on trophic status and true color
values. A Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) is currently being developed for the lake to
mitigate the effects of nutrients to the system. A high level of total nitrogen in the lake was
documented which should be mitigated. Tenkiller Ferry Lake was supporting its FWP beneficial
use based on nephelometric turbidity and pH. The lake was partially supporting its FWP
beneficial use based on low D.O. concentrations in the water column. The very low D.O. values
seen in both the summer time in the lake are a cause for serious concern. Any time a larger
portion of the water column has D.O. less than 2.0 mg/L you have a serious problem that should
be further addressed. Bacteriological samples were also collected to assess the Primary Body
Contact Recreation (PBCR) beneficial use. All sample results were at or below the detection
limit, therefore the PBCR beneficial use is considered fully supported. The United States Army
Corps of Engineers constructed Tenkiller Ferry Lake in 1953. The lake was authorized to serve
for flood control and hydroelectric power. Today the lake serves many other purposes and is
one of the most heavily used recreational lakes in Oklahoma. Tenkiller Ferry Lake is one of the
lake jewels of Oklahoma and it should be managed and maintained in that fashion.
