Can You Swim in McIntosh Lake Longmont?

No, swimming is not allowed in McIntosh Lake in Longmont, Colorado. According to Longmont’s Park Regulations, swimming is not permitted in any park water bodies in the city except for Union Reservoir. Access to McIntosh Lake is only allowed at the designated boat ramps, and swimming is prohibited. It is important to follow these regulations for safety and to preserve the natural environment of the lake.

An Overview of McIntosh Lake in Longmont

McIntosh Lake is a picturesque 150-acre reservoir located in northwest Longmont, Colorado. Surrounded by cottonwood trees and greenery, the lake provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation.

The lake was created in 1904 by enlarging and damming an existing slough along St. Vrain Creek. It was named after Longmont pioneer settler Archibald McIntosh who helped establish the town in the 1870s.

Today, McIntosh Lake is maintained by Longmont’s Department of Parks and Open Space. It offers opportunities for non-motorized boating, fishing, picnicking, and walking/biking along the lake loop trail. Majestic views of the Rocky Mountains can be enjoyed from the shores of the lake.

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Longmont’s Rules Prohibiting Swimming in McIntosh Lake

According to Longmont’s municipal code, swimming and bathing are prohibited in all public parks except Union Reservoir.

Section 13.04.070 clearly states:

“Swimming and bathing are prohibited in all waters and waterways in public parks, except in waters and waterways designated for such purposes in Union Reservoir.”

This blanket ban encompasses all water bodies including McIntosh Lake, Kanemoto Park Pond, Golden Ponds, and others. The only exception is Union Reservoir which has a designated swim beach area.

Under Section 13.04.080, boat launching or docking in restricted areas around McIntosh Lake can also result in tickets or fines. Access is only allowed at designated ramps.

These rules aim to promote safety, prevent drowning incidents, and protect the riparian habitat around McIntosh Lake and other natural ponds/streams in Longmont.

Safety Concerns with Swimming in McIntosh Lake

Allowing swimming in McIntosh Lake poses several safety risks and hazards:

• No lifeguards or supervision: Unlike Union Reservoir, there are no lifeguards stationed at McIntosh Lake. Swimming unsupervised can be extremely dangerous.
• Cold water temperatures: Situated at over 5000 feet elevation, the water in McIntosh Lake rarely exceeds 60-65°F even in summer. Sudden cold-water shock can cause hyperventilation, panic, and drowning.
• Underwater hazards: The lake bed contains submerged trees, sudden drop-offs, and debris which can entangle swimmers and lead to drowning.
• Boating accidents: Allowing swimming would increase the chances of collisions between swimmers and non-motorized boats using the lake.
• Spread of waterborne illnesses: The water quality at McIntosh Lake is not monitored or treated for recreational swimming safety. Unhygienic conditions could lead to transmission of bacteria, viruses, amoeba, etc.
• Liability concerns: There are no warning signs, demarcated swim zones, or emergency facilities at the lake. This greatly increases injury/drowning risks and subsequent liability for the city.

Considering these factors, prohibiting swimming is a prudent decision by Longmont’s Parks Department to prioritize public safety.

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Environmental Protection of McIntosh Lake

Banning swimming also helps protect the delicate riparian ecosystem of McIntosh Lake in the following ways:

• Prevents shoreline erosion: Swimming activity along the shoreline can destroy aquatic vegetation. This destabilizes the banks and increases erosion.
• Avoids disturbance to wildlife: The wetlands around the lake provide crucial habitat for various birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Human presence can disrupt sensitive nesting sites and feeding areas.
• Reduces pollution: Sunscreens, lotions, and cosmetics washed off swimmers’ bodies can introduce harmful chemicals into the lake water. This damages water quality.
• Limits invasive species: Swimming gear that is not properly cleaned can transmit invasive aquatic plants, mollusks, or pathogens between water bodies. McIntosh Lake has already been impacted by zebra mussels.
• Conserves water: Large water losses due to evaporation and increased municipal treatment efforts would be required to maintain safe swimming conditions.

Thus, prohibiting swimming upholds McIntosh Lake’s ecosystem integrity for the enjoyment of future generations.

Alternative Swimming Options in Longmont

While swimming is not permitted at McIntosh Lake, Longmont offers several other excellent swimming and water recreation choices:

Union Reservoir Swim Beach

This sandy beach area offers lifeguards, concessions, changing rooms, and prime facilities for swimming. The water temperature gets quite warm in summer. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats can also be rented.

Longmont Recreation Center

The rec center features an indoor pool for year-round swimming and recreation. Options include lap lanes, diving boards, a vortex, water slides, and a children’s pool.

YMCA of Longmont

The YMCA has both indoor and outdoor pools, along with a fun water slide. Swim lessons, aerobics classes, lap swimming, family swim times, and summer camps are available.

Hotel Indoor Pools

Many hotels in Longmont such as Hampton Inn, Courtyard Marriott, and Homewood Suites offer indoor pools and hot tubs for registered guests.

Splash Parks & Spray Pads

Longmont has splash parks at Kanemoto Park, Roosevelt Park, and the Civic Center Complex for water play without standing water. These are open seasonally.

So while McIntosh Lake itself remains off-limits for swimming, there are plenty of suitable options in Longmont for enjoying the water safely.

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The Benefits of Following the Rules

It is important that all residents and visitors respect Longmont’s regulations prohibiting swimming in McIntosh Lake. This has multiple benefits:

• Upholds public safety and prevents tragic accidents
• Protects the environment and wildlife habitat
• Ensures the continued enjoyment of the lake for recreation
• Avoids damage to the lake’s edges and dam infrastructure
• Limits legal liability for the city and parks department
• Sets a good example for younger generations on following rules

By swimming only at sanctioned locations like Union Reservoir, we can all do our part to preserve McIntosh Lake for non-motorized boating, fishing, and scenic trails. Together, Longmont can maintain both public access and ecological health at this beloved community lake.

The Consequences of Violating the Rules

Those who disregard Longmont’s clear rules against swimming in McIntosh Lake unfortunately face some consequences:

• Fines and tickets: Swimming in the lake is punishable under municipal code. Fines generally start at $50 for a first offense but the penalties can be much greater.
• Increased injuries: Without lifeguards, the chances of drowning, cold-water shock, or underwater accidents rise exponentially.
• Damage to the lake: Repeated violations degrade the shoreline, disrupt wildlife, and impair water quality over time.
• Loss of access rights: If problems persist, the city may be forced to restrict access to the lake or deploy patrols. This penalizes rule-abiding citizens too.
• Legal liability: Swimmers violate the rules at their own risk. The city is not liable for any injuries or accidents that result.

In short, those who disregard the swimming prohibition can negatively impact the lake, undermine safety, and ruin the experience for everyone. It is not worth risking fines or even lives by swimming illegally in McIntosh Lake.

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Conclusion: Respect Longmont’s Rules for the Good of All

McIntosh Lake’s beauty and recreational opportunities have long made it a treasured spot for Longmont residents. Preserving its health and safely sharing this space must be a community effort.

The city’s policy prohibiting swimming in McIntosh Lake and other public water bodies exists for very valid reasons – to protect human life, promote responsible enjoyment, and conserve a valuable natural resource.

By collectively respecting Longmont’s rules and taking advantage of the many authorized swimming options available, we can keep McIntosh Lake an unspoiled place to boat, fish, and build community for generations more. So please – no swimming in the lake! But do come enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and scenery. Together we can ensure this beloved destination remains accessible and sustainable for all who wish to experience its charms.