By Hola Iowa
Iowa DNR monitors state beaches during the summer for E. coli and algae-related toxins. Since Memorial Day, 20 state beaches have had at least one “swimming not recommended” warning.
Several Iowa lake beaches have had warnings this summer because of elevated levels of E. coli bacteria or algae-related toxins. Although Iowa does not have an ocean coast, the state has lake beaches in state parks that draw visitors during the warm-weather months.
Since Memorial Day, 20 of the 41 state beaches monitored by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources have had at least one “swimming not recommended” warning, a designation meaning swimming is not recommended at that time.
Ahead of the July 4 weekend, 11 state beaches had active warnings. Results can change throughout the summer as new water samples are collected.
The warnings are tied to E. coli or algae toxins
Iowa DNR conducts routine monitoring at state beaches and at several beaches managed by cities or counties. The tests check for indicator bacteria and algae toxins that can pose health risks.
E. coli is used as an indicator of fecal contamination. Its presence can signal that the water may also contain other microorganisms capable of causing illness, especially if someone swallows water while swimming.
DNR also monitors microcystins, toxins produced by certain types of cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae. These toxins can appear during algal blooms and affect water quality.
A “swimming not recommended” warning does not always mean a beach is closed. It means water-quality results exceeded state standards and swimming may carry a higher risk of illness.
Rain can raise bacteria levels in lakes
Bacteria levels can rise after heavy rain. Runoff can carry contamination into lakes, beaches and swimming areas.
That contamination can come from septic systems, wastewater treatment plants, manure spills, pet or wildlife waste, waterfowl, livestock or young children in the water.
The warnings are especially relevant for children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. They also apply when someone plans to fully submerge or when there is a risk of swallowing water.
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The state dashboard is updated on Fridays
Iowa DNR maintains a monitoring dashboard with current beach results. The information line is 515-725-3434.
The dashboard and phone line are updated on Fridays during the monitoring season. A beach with a warning may change status after new testing.
DNR also publishes information on beaches managed by cities, counties and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoirs, including Saylorville Lake, Lake Red Rock, Coralville Lake and Rathbun Lake.
Swimming hours at state parks run from sunrise to sunset
At Iowa state parks, swimming is allowed between sunrise and sunset. Beach use and swimming are prohibited between sunset and sunrise.
Swimming must take place within the designated area marked by ropes, buoys or signs. State rules allow swimming outside that area only under specific conditions.
The most recent results for Iowa beaches are available through the Iowa DNR dashboard and by phone at 515-725-3434, with updates on Fridays during the summer season.
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