Maple Grove to Allow Swimming at Weaver Lake Beach Without Lifeguards

A shortage of lifeguards is causing the Maple Grove City Council to make changes to its city code.

Maple Grove will now allow swimming without the presence of lifeguards at Weaver Lake Beach. The change was made at this week’s council meeting. The vote did not generate discussion as it was under the consent agenda, which is usually set aside for more routine matters.

According to city documents, Maple Grove city staff did research and found that many community beach operations throughout the metro either have limited or no lifeguards on duty. The documents did say that if resources allow, staff may return to a more consistent lifeguard schedule during peak hours on weekends and other high-use days. However, “guarding the community center pools would take priority over the beach,” a staff document read.

The code change was needed because otherwise Weaver Lake Beach would have significantly reduced hours. It also allows beach patrons to avoid breaking any laws in order to swim.

The following is a list of some beaches in the northwest suburbs and whether lifeguards are available:

Plymouth

• Medicine Lake East Beach – no guard
• Medicine Lake West Beach – guarded
• Parkers Lake Beach – guarded

Three Rivers Park District

• Elm Creek Beach – guarded
• Fish Lake Regional Park – no guard
• French Regional Park – no guard

Weaver Lake Beach in Maple Grove

Also See: Local Pools, Beaches Seek Lifeguards Amid Nationwide Shortage

Maple Grove