Ryan Brennecke / The Bulletin file photo Nate Watson jumps in after his friend E.J. Lesowske while trying to beat the heat on July 3 with friends at Discovery Park in Bend. The Bend Park & Recreation District warns that the water in the lake is not potable and although playing and swimming in the lake is allowed, there may be water quality issues.

Playing in the irrigation lake at Bend Park & Recreation District’s new Discovery Park is allowed, but the district is warning residents that there may be water quality issues.

According to a press release, because of high use the district has asked Deschutes County and a research firm to test for E. Coli and other bacteria in the lake, which is located near NorthWest Crossing. If levels are high, the district will post signs at the lake. However, the district is not testing for all possible dangers and is emphasizing that the water is not potable.

“People should be aware that the water is untreated and if they choose to recreate in it, to do so at their own risk,” Don Horton, the district’s executive director, said in the release.

The lake is intended to support irrigation and contain stormwater. Despite the presence of a fishing platform, fish have not yet been introduced into the lake.