Rainier summers are closing Minneapolis beaches more often as bacteria levels spike

Minneapolis beaches face increased closures this summer, with nearly half of the city's 12 beaches shutting down due to elevated bacteria levels from stormwater runoff. Lake Hiawatha beach has been closed for six weeks, highlighting the trend of more frequent closures linked to heavy rainfall. Rachael Crabb, the Park Board's water resources supervisor, explained that beach closures are necessary to protect public health. A Star Tribune analysis noted that the past summer saw the highest number of beach closures in 11 years, coinciding with increased rainfall. The Park Board is enhancing stormwater management through a fee increase and education programs aimed at reducing pollution.

Local residents like Adam Juntenen and Chao Yu express frustration over the closures, which disrupt their summer enjoyment. The Park Board's ongoing water quality monitoring program tests for bacteria and cyanobacteria to ensure safety. As climate change leads to more extreme weather, officials stress the need for improved stewardship of the city's lakes.