24 Sep 2019

Increased fall releases from Rathbun Lake cancelled

In response to concerns over ongoing levee assessments and repairs along the lower Chariton River and the Missouri River, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District will not conduct the previously announced increased releases from Rathbun Lake.

23 Aug 2019

Corps reopens beaches at Rathbun Lake

The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rathbun Lake has opened Corps of Engineers’ public designated beaches based on recent algal toxin laboratory results. Data results from Buck Creek and Island View beaches are within the Iowa Department of Natural Resources state beach advisory standards and due to the improved conditions are open.

13 Aug 2019

Corps at Rathbun Lake to conduct a fall pulse in late September

In 2016, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers updated the Chariton River Water Regulation Manual and incorporated new adaptive water management strategies benefiting interests both upstream and downstream of the Rathbun Lake dam. One of the adaptive water management strategies in the new manual allows for a ‘fall pulse’ or increased water release for a short duration from the lake. This fall pulse gives the Corps the ability to increase water in support of downstream wildlife management goals on state and privately owned lands.

9 Aug 2019

Notice of confirmed harmful algae bloom at Rathbun Lake

The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rathbun Lake is actively responding to a potentially toxic blue-green algae bloom with site-specific sampling and temporary beach closures. Algal toxin data from samples collected on August 7, 2019, from Buck Creek and Island View beaches have tested positive for the algal toxin microcystin in concentrations exceeding Iowa Department of Natural Resources state beach advisory threshold of 20 micrograms per liter of microcystin.

5 Aug 2019

Notice of harmful algae bloom at Rathbun Lake

CENTERVILLE, Iowa - The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rathbun Lake is actively responding to a potentially toxic blue-green algae bloom with site-specific sampling and temporary beach closures.  The present algae bloom has been observed at many areas of Rathbun Lake; from the dam to upper lake areas including Corps of Engineers’ beaches and boat ramps. Blue-green algae bloom are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float or drift around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment.  If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid all water contact and keep pets away.  As a precautionary measure, Corps of Engineers’ public designated beaches, Buck Creek and Island View, are closed. Marinas, lakeside businesses and park camping facilities are open for business.