The Iowa Department of Natural Resources says that as of Friday morning, three beaches in the state are not recommended for swimming due to water quality concerns.
Lower Pine Lake near Eldora is listed as unsafe after testing showed E. coli levels exceeding the single-sample standard. Other beaches under advisory include Bobwhite State Park in southern Iowa and Lake Darling State Park in southeastern Iowa.
Closer to home, KCCI-TV reported earlier this week that swimming was not recommended at Beeds Lake State Park near Hampton, but latest DNR sampling from Tuesday shows conditions have improved and the beach is considered safe as of Friday.
The Iowa DNR monitors state beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day each summer, testing for E. coli and microcystins. Officials say conditions can change quickly with rainfall and runoff, and swimmers are encouraged to check updates before heading to the water.
