The multiple-use aspect of lakes and reservoirs in recent years has been a source of growing concern. A panel discussion focussed on: the increased public pressure to use lakes and reservoirs and the attendant technical and biological problems that have evolved; the viral element of this water quality concern; the management implications and recommendations for protecting swimmer's public health; the potential and observed microbial effects of fecal contamination associated with land uses in nearshore areas of lake and estuarine environments.