Republican City, Neb. — Health officials have issued a temporary closure of Gremlin Cove Beach at Harlan County Lake after recent water quality tests revealed elevated levels of E. Coli bacteria, posing a potential risk to public health.
According to weekly testing conducted by the Lower Republican Natural Resources District, the E. Coli concentration at the popular beach reached 365.4 colonies per 100 milliliters of water — significantly higher than the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recommended limit of 235 colonies per 100 ml for recreational waters.
To safeguard visitors, temporary closure signs will be posted at the beach entrance, following standard protocols set by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Summer beach closures may occur for several reasons, including:
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Elevated bacterial contamination
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Harmful blue-green algae blooms
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Excessive water levels
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Gremlin Cove Beach will remain off-limits to swimmers until water quality returns to safe levels. The next round of testing is scheduled for July 7, with updated results anticipated on July 8.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about current lake conditions and other potential beach closures by visiting the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District website:
👉 Kansas City District > Locations > District Lakes
Additional weekly updates on beach safety in Nebraska are also available through the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s Beach Watch Program.
Officials thank the public for their patience and cooperation, and remind beachgoers that these precautionary steps are essential for maintaining a safe and healthy recreational environment.
