BLOOMINGTON — Water levels at Monroe Lake have dropped significantly but remain more than 6 feet above their normal pool, according to recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). While many recreational facilities have reopened, several areas are still closed or inaccessible due to the high water.
Visitors should be aware of the following closures:
- Beaches: The beaches at both Paynetown SRA and Fairfax SRA are closed until further notice.
- Trails: The southwestern portion of the Homestead Loop at Fairfax SRA is impassable due to flooded creek crossings.
- Access Roads: Cartop SRA cannot be accessed from the east, though it remains reachable from the west side. Portions of Friendship Road and McGowan Road in the Stillwater-Northfork Waterfowl Area are also closed.
- Fishing Piers: The fishing piers at both Paynetown SRA and Cutright SRA are currently inaccessible to the public.
For the latest water level updates, the public is advised to check the NOAA gauge data, which is measured just above the reservoir dam.
