Fecal Bacteria Results In Closure At Lake Mead

Officials declared a temporary closure of a few areas in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, due to the discovery of fecal bacteria over the weekend.

The National Park Service (NPS) announced that the Arizona Hot Springs Trail, the White Rock Canyon parking lot located on Highway 93, and the hot springs were all being closed temporarily.

In the coming days, efforts are being undertaken to bring the water quality up to the required levels mandated by federal and state regulations in order for the regions to be reopened.

NPS is reminding the public to follow the principles of leave-no-trace, such as packing out garbage and human waste (feces).

Hikers visiting Lake Mead National Recreation Area often make a stop at Arizona Hot Springs, which has grown in popularity.

At the beginning of the fall season, someone representing Lake Mead National Recreation Area cautioned of the presence of Naegleria fowleri, a brain-eating amoeba, discovered in the hot springs situated beneath Hoover Dam.

The representative stated that this single-celled organism can enter through the nasal passage and bring on a life-threatening infection which can lead to a pounding headache, fever, and nausea.

Visitors are warned not to dive, play in the water, or immerse themselves in the hot spring waters by the national recreation area.