DNR says it’s safe to swim in Backbone Lake despite bacteria

Iowa Department of Natural Resources officials say it’s still safe to swim in Backbone Lake near Strawberry Point. Recent water tests showed high levels of bacteria in the lake. D-N-R spokesman Jerry Reisinger says they won’t close the beach, but will let swimmers know about the bacteria.Reisinger says swimmers are being urged not to swallow the water. However, Reisinger says the water is safe enough for swimming.and there haven’t been any reports of anyone getting sick from swimming in Backbone Lake. He says since the testing began just recently, the high bacteria levels could’ve been around for a long time.Reisinger says the D-N-R will continue to monitor the bacteria levels in the lake.