GRDA Reassures The Public That Grand Lake State Park Swim Beach Is Open

Langley, June 13, 2016 – The Grand River Dam Authority is reassuring the public that the swim beach at Grand Lake State Park is open.

Recently a story was shared among social media sites that the swim beach at Grand Lake State Park in Bernice was closed due to bacteria presence in the waters. That was the case in 2014 due to the presence of E.Coli in the water. However, the Authority’s most recent sampling of the water shows all levels are in good shape now for swimmers.

“Public safety is our top priority,” said Melanie Earl, GRDA Assistant Superintendent of Media Services. ”We constantly monitor the water quality of the bodies of water under GRDA’s jurisdiction, and work diligently to inform the public anytime there is a concern of safety.”

Using genetic monitoring techniques (Microbial Source Tracking), GRDA’s Water Quality Research Lab found no fecal contamination (including no detection of human sources, which have the most potential to cause illness) in the water samples taken at Grand Lake State Park last month. The site will be tested again next week.

“GRDA’s Water Lab works daily monitoring the waters of Grand and Hudson Lakes, and there currently are no areas of concern in regards to public safety. However, like you would any time you visit the water, we just ask you to use common sense and follow safe swimming practices,” said Earl

If you do plan on swimming soon in area lakes or rivers, GRDA does want to pass along these tips from the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ). They are good to keep in mind any time you visit the water:

• Hold nose or wear nose plugs when jumping in the water.
• Wash open skin cuts and scrapes with clean soap and water immediately after swimming.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming.
• Wear ear plugs to prevent ear infections.
• Wear swim goggles or masks to prevent eye infections.
• Avoid swimming near storm drains (pipes that drain polluted water from streets).
• Take children to restroom frequently/use swim diapers on infants.
• Also, after swimming, always remember to wash hands with soap and water for a full 20 seconds before preparing or eating food.