CLINTON— Despite rumors to the contrary, Clinton Lake is not closed.

The Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) last week issued a warning that a potentially toxic algae—blue-green algae, which are prevalent in any lake or pond this time of year. The algae may have caused illness to an Urbana girl hospitalized over the weekend after a visit to the lake.

A rumor that made its way to the Journal newsroom that the lake was closed was found to be untrue. DNR estimated some 5,000 people swam at the lake during the Fourth of July weekend, with no other illnesses reported.

Tom Jackson, Clinton Lake site supervisor, on Thursday said the lake is open for swimmers and boaters. He said the water has been tested four times; twice nothing was found and twice the toxins—microcystins—were well within acceptable levels.

According to a news release issued late Thursday afternoon, “IDNR and IEPA (Illinois Environmental Protection Agency) are continuing to review sampling data collected at Clinton Lake, but test results received so far show lo levels of the type o algae that would cause a concern for public health.”

Nevertheless, boaters, swimmers and other lake users are advised to avoid ingesting lake water and not to swim in areas of stagnant water or where algae blooms are present.