Closure of state-run beaches excessive

While we agree that recent violent activity at the Lake Macbride beach area in Johnson County is unacceptable, we also feel the move by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to close the beach nearly five hours earlier each day is excessive and doesn't directly address the apparent root of the problem.

Following at least two large fights at the beach in June, which resulted in arrests for public intoxication and assault, the DNR decided to close the beach at 6 p.m. instead of 10:30 p.m.

State officials hope closing the beach earlier will prevent future fights and disruptive behavior, which tended to happen later in the day. They also believe much of the rowdiness has been fueled by alcohol consumption, especially since Macbride is the only beach in Johnson County that still allows drinking.

If that's the case, it makes more sense to ban alcohol consumption at the beach than to close early - thereby punishing all visitors but especially those who can't get to the beach during the day.

Adding more frequent patrols by law enforcement also likely would quell beachgoers' bad behavior.

In addition to limiting access to the majority of beachgoers who aren't causing the problems, closing the beach early also punishes area businesses that rely on tourism.

Rep. Bobby Kaufmann has said a locally operated kayak and canoe rental business is seeing significant declines. The business is the sole source of income for its operator and employs about two dozen area college students.

Kaufmann, who has contacted DNR officials in an effort to reverse the early closing policy, has offered to organize a meeting with local residents to sort out a long-term solution that will address safety and public access concerns.

We encourage state officials to cooperate.

This week is the hottest of the 2015 season so far, but more hot weather is in our future. Access to splash pads, public pools and beach areas, besides being a time-honored tradition, is a cost-effective way to beat the heat.

And finally, Lake Macbride and Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beach in Linn County near Palo were funded and are maintained with taxpayer dollars. Keeping taxpayers at bay should be an option of last, not first, resort.

We urge the DNR to reconsider its decision to close these beaches so early, and to work with local residents and business owners for a better solution.

' Comments: (319) 398-8469; editorial@thegazette.com