CMSWS staff routinely monitor five lakes within Mecklenburg County. Additionally, staff respond to any surface water pollution concerns.
You can visit our new story map for an interactive look at the lakes in Mecklenburg County. This map will show you data from all of our lakes, information on how, where, and why we monitor, and how you can enjoy the lake.
When out on our lakes, be mindful of water conditions. If it has rained in the past 72 hours, it is best to avoid swimming in coves as they are the main area where stormwater empties into the lakes, often carrying sediment and bacteria. Remember, when in doubt- stay out!
Swim Advisories
A Swim Advisory is issued by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services, in conjunction with the Mecklenburg County Health Department, when a natural body of water is considered a public health threat for swimmers. Examples of conditions that may cause an Advisory include a sewage spill, a chemical spill, Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) or unsafe chemical or biological levels identified during routine monitoring. Once an Advisory is issued, the water is typically tested once a day until it is considered safe for swimming. If you would like to receive swim advisory information straight to your phone, simply text MECKNOSWIM to 888-777. You can also sign up for alerts.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)
Algae are microscopic, plant-like organisms that are the base of the food web in lakes, ponds, and streams. Under the right environmental conditions, algae can rapidly grow and form an algal bloom which may appear as surface scum, water discoloration, or both. Algal blooms that are formed by species that can produce toxins are known as harmful algal blooms (HABs), but can also be referred to as cyanobacteria blooms, blue-green algae blooms, cyanoHABs, or potential HABs. The toxins produced by HABs can cause adverse health effects in humans, pets, and wildlife. Visit our HABs page for more information about safety, identification, reporting, and resources.
Fish Consumption Advisories
Fish consumption advisories for Mecklenburg County's lakes are issued by the state and are determined by testing the tissue of the fish. These advisories help people understand if they should limit or completely avoid eating different types of fish. In some cases, advisories are stronger for children or women of child-bearing age. See current fish consumption advisories affecting Charlotte-Mecklenburg.
No Wake Zones for Lakes in Mecklenburg County
A No Wake Zone is an area of a lake or river where vessels are required to travel at an idle speed or a slow speed, so no appreciable wake is created. No Wake Zones are typically defined by floating buoys.
The Lake Norman Marine Commission and the Lake Wylie Marine Commission handle requests for the establishment of No Wake Zones on these respective lakes. Inquiries about the process for No Wake Zone requests for Mountain Island Lake can be sent to stormwaterservices@mecknc.gov.