The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has announced temporary closures of two popular Minneapolis beaches due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Bde Maka Ska North Beach closed its shores to swimmers on Tuesday, July 22, while Lake Hiawatha Beach has remained off-limits since July 1. These precautionary measures come as routine water quality monitoring detected bacteria levels that surpass state guidelines, designed to protect public health.
So far, there haven't been any reported illnesses among the beach-goers. It's standard procedure for MPRB to close the beaches when E. coli readings exceed the safe threshold. According to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board announcement, these closures are part of an ongoing effort to ensure the well-being of any individual venturing into these public waters.
Meanwhile, Minneapolitans looking to cool down this summer have other options, as all other MPRB-managed public beaches are reported to have acceptable bacteria levels and remain open. Those planning a day out by the lake can stay informed about water quality through the MPRB's Lake Water Quality map available online, which provides regular testing results and re-opening announcements.
MPRB also provides a series of precautions to ensure a safe swimming experience: Don't swim if you or your child have diarrhea or are feeling unwell; avoid ingesting lake water; wash hands thoroughly before eating and after diaper changes; steer clear of the water after heavy rainfall as bacterial levels typically normalize within 48 hours; towel off immediately after swimming; and stay away from blue-green algae. Adhering to these guidelines can help prevent health risks associated with contaminated lake water.
