Prairie Creek Reservoir Beach Temporarily Closed Muncie Indiana Due to Unsafe Algae Levels

The beach at Prairie Creek Reservoir in Muncie, Indiana, has been temporarily closed due to elevated levels of microcystins, a toxin produced by blue-green algae, which poses health risks such as skin rashes and liver damage. Recent testing found toxin levels at 9.9, surpassing the EPA's safe threshold of 8. To address the issue, the reservoir will undergo algae treatment starting June 30 using Cutrine Plus®, an EPA-registered chemical deemed safe for fish, livestock, and recreational activities. The closure will remain until treatment and subsequent testing confirm toxin levels have returned to a safe range. Officials have posted signs at the site warning visitors and swimmers, including those on boats, about the potential health risks. The reservoir is closely monitored by state and local environmental agencies, and similar algae-related advisories are currently in place at other Indiana beaches such as Brookville Lake and Mill Lake.