Scientist says Arkansas reducing phosphorous in Illinois River

(Rogers, Arkansas-AP) -- Arkansas officials say laboratory analysis shows water quality in the Illinois River is improving.<br><br>The waterway is at the center of a dispute between Oklahoma and Arkansas.<br><br>Oklahoma

Wednesday, March 24th 2004, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Rogers, Arkansas-AP) -- Arkansas officials say laboratory analysis shows water quality in the Illinois River is improving.

The waterway is at the center of a dispute between Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Oklahoma officials adopted water quality standards, forcing northwest Arkansas officials to make changes to reduce phosphorus discharges into waterways that flow into Oklahoma. Arkansas is still working through how to put all the changes in place.

Marc Nelson of the Arkansas Water Resource Centers says municipal water treatment plants are doing a better job of reducing phosphorus in treated water.

Phosphorous causes growth of algae that threatens aquatic life and gives the water a foul odor and taste.