Harlan County Reservoir — Elevated levels of E. Coli have been found at Harlan County Reservoir, prompting officials to close Gremlin Cove Beach.
Officials will retest the water on Tuesday, June 1, and results will be available the following day. The beach will remain closed until levels fall below 235 colonies per 100 ml water. Conditions are at a higher risk to human health when swimming. Concentrations of bacteria change rapidly based on many factors, including weather conditions, therefore signs will not be posted with these higher levels.
Sampling is conducted weekly by the Lower Republican Natural Resource District at Harlan County Lake beaches. E. coli concentrations measured from beach samples, as recommended by the Environmental Protection
Agency and state agencies, are used as the most representative and measurable human health concern at swim beaches.
Two Rivers Public Health Department (TRPHD) in Kearney TRPHD recommends everyone use their own judgement when considering recreational activities at Harlan County Reservoir.
Suggestions from the health department for those concerned about the water include:
-Avoid any situation which could cause you to swallow lake water.
-If you have been in contact with lake water, shower afterward.
-If you have been in contact with lake water, wash hands before eating.
