Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis this week announced that, with the exception of Presque Isle State Park in Erie, all swimming beaches at lakes in state parks will implement an open swim policy this year.

"The open swim program provides increased opportunities for swimmers beyond the hours and seasons during which lifeguards are available," Secretary DiBerardinis said. "Over the last few years, we have successfully implemented open swim policies at 23 of our state parks. We will add the remainder of the state parks with lakes this year."

Lifeguards are not provided at open swim beaches. Swimmers swim at their own risk. Visitors are encouraged to be vigilant when their children are swimming.

Beaches will continue to be patrolled and monitored by state park staff. Instructions and regulations on swimming are posted at all beaches.

The use of lifeguards will continue at swimming pools at state parks, as well as at Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie, where currents on the lake make water hazards much different than other smaller lakes in the state park system.

The state parks that will implement the open swim policy in 2008 are Bald Eagle, Beltzville, Black Moshannon, Canoe Creek, Chapman, Cowans Gap, Gifford Pinchot, Laurel Hill, Moraine, Parker Dam, Pine Grove Furnace, Raccoon Creek, Shawnee, Tuscarora and Yellow Creek.

The implementation of open swim beaches is a national trend; it allows state parks to operate more efficiently, and provides greater public access to beaches.

Beaches (except Presque Isle) are generally open to swimming from before Memorial Day to after Labor Day. The exact opening and closing dates vary at each park.

"We encourage visitors to call ahead if they have concerns about swimming at a state park they plan to visit," Secretary DiBerardinis said.

For more information, visit DCNR’s State Parks webpage.

1/11/2008