Why 'No Swimming' means No Swimming

During these hot summer months, running to one of Reston's lakes and jumping in is tempting. However, look before you leap.  It is considered trespassing,  and you can get a ticket.

Swimming is not allowed partly because the quality of the water is not tested. All four man-made lakes – Audubon, Anne, Newport and Thoreau – are actually 125 acres of storm water management facilities created not just to add to the beauty of the area, but so rainwater would have a place to go after a storm instead of flooding neighborhoods and streets.

"They are private lakes and it is against our policy; it is an insurance issue," said Larry Butler, director of parks and recreation for the Reston Association.

It is an issue because, even though Reston lakes have streams that feed into them, most of the water comes solely from rain. Usually lakes have a continuous flow of water that helps to keep them clean.

Also adding to the danger of lake swimming:  no lifeguards and no water clarity. That makes it difficult for swimmers to judge how deep the water is. The depths, which range from just a few inches to over 20 feet deep, are not marked.

However, there is plenty of fun to be had on Reston's lakes. Residents are allowed to fish and boat in the lake, and some even have their own docks.

Dr. Paul Bukaveckas, an ecologist at Virginia Commonwealth University, has some general tips about avoiding water anywhere that could be unhealthy:

*   If there is obvious life it is generally a good sign. Look for fish insects, herons, eagles and ospreys.

*  Look at what is along the banks of the water. If trees and forest surround the water, they act as a natural barrier against pollutants. If there is construction or a road, the barrier is gone and pollutants can easily be carried to the lake.

  *  Do not swim right after a rainfall. That is when bacteria and water run off is most harmful.