CENTERVILLE & RATHBUN LAKE, IOWA -- There is a big celebration going on this weekend for a big attraction in southeast Iowa. Lake Rathbun, one of the biggest natural attractions in all of Iowa is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this weekend.
It was 40 years ago that former President Richard Nixon dedicated the lake, and since then, people from all around the United States have come to rest, relax and relish in the natural beauty that the lake has to offer.
On Tuesday, KTVO spoke with Appanoose Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Tod Faris. Faris spoke about the lake, and what it means to the economy in Appanoose County.
“We’ve been very blessed to have the lake, for our county and for the communities in our county. Because there is a lot of foot traffic and a lot of tourism, traffic of boaters, campers, folks staying in our hotels in and around the lake; there is a lot of dollars being spent here,” said Faris.
Faris told KTVO that this year’s celebration is going to be different than celebrations in the past. Instead of having on big celebration, there will be different celebrations throughout the Rathbun area.
“What is different this year is we are incorporating the businesses throughout and around the lake. Many of them have bands throughout the summer, and events like that. So, what our Rathbun Lake Association is doing is helping market them; what events they are having throughout the weekend. Instead of having one centralized place, we’re actually having numerous events throughout and around the lake,” said Faris.
For a list of activities taking place this weekend to celebrate the anniversary of Lake Rathbun, click here.
The Daily Iowegian's article about the anniversary and KTVO's coverage can be viewed here.
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