The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

NEAR MORAVIA, IOWA -- Rathbun Lake is one of Iowa's largest lakes and has provided entertainment for many Iowans for decades.

During the weekend of July 29-July 31, residents celebrated the lake's 40th anniversary.

The lake was dedicated on July 31, 1971 by former President Richard Nixon.

The US Army Corps of Engineers constructed the dam and reservoir to provide flood protection to the surrounding communities.

Retirees in the area say that Rathbun Lake has changed the area from a farming community to a tourist town. 

"It' s a good place for entertainment, recreation...a place to getaway from the everyday bustles and hustles, " said Tom Ingles, of Waterloo, IA, who has bought a summer house nearby and brings his family to the lake every summer weekend.

Former business owner Dan Mihalovich says he's glad tourists are in the area. He opened Tiki Marine back in 1975 and has now let his son takeover. He says business has been steady ever since he opened. 

"We're much more responsive to tourism. We've seen a lot more crafts and specialty stores come in. We get a lot of traffic which in turn makes business," said Mihalovich.

Rathbun Lake's 40th Anniversary Weekend Celebration continues until Sunday, July 31. On Saturday evening at 8 p.m., Krazy Connie's Landing will feature the Nine Miles North band at 8 p.m in concert, and on Sunday, Tiki Marine will have a boat show and open house.

For more information, visit the Rathbun Lake Association website.