In response to an active blue-green algae bloom on Diamond Lake, the Mundelein Park & Recreation District announced today out of an abundance of caution that Diamond Lake Beach will be closed this weekend and the Summer Beach Bash originally scheduled for Saturday, June 12 is canceled.
Earlier today the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Public Health urged caution on lakes and rivers statewide because conditions are ideal for the rapid growth of cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae). Although the algae occur naturally, in high concentrations it can have health effects on people and pets. https://www2.illinois.gov/epa/topics/water-quality/monitoring/algal-bloom/Documents/06.08.21%20-%20IEPA-IDPH_HAB_SeasonPrecaution-Final.pdf
“Because public safety is our top priority, we routinely test water quality at Diamond Lake Beach with the Lake County Health Department, Illinois Department of Public Health, and others,” said Ron Salski, Executive Director, Mundelein Park & Recreation District. “When test results about algae began to approach levels of concern, as a precautionary measure we made the decision to close Diamond Lake Beach this weekend and cancel the Summer Beach Bash.”
New summer swimming hours for Diamond Lake Beach due to a lifeguard shortage were already scheduled to begin Monday, June 14, with closure of Diamond Lake Beach Mondays through Thursdays until further notice. The blue-green algae bloom on the lake prompted closure to start this weekend. Mundelein Park & Recreation District will continue to monitor lake algae levels to determine when opening hours for Diamond Lake Beach will resume. For up-to-date information, the District is directing residents to visit the Rainout Line Weather Updates page https://www.mundeleinparks.org/rainoutline-weather-updates/
