SHOW ME THE RECORDS: E. coli levels in local lakes

Each week, the Missourian highlights a government record that is available to the public. Open records help people keep government in check and help them better understand how government affects their lives.

For a complete list of Show Me the Records, go to http://columbiamissourian.com/records.

The records: E. coli levels in local lakes in 2010. The amount of E. coli found in the months of May, June, July and August are listed. According to the EPA the amount of E. coli should not exceed 126 colonies per 100 milliliters.

Why you'd want them: To see what lakes do not meet the EPA's standards and when.

Where you get the records: Go to the city of Columbia's website at gocolumbiamo.com. On the left, click on the Health and Human Services Tab. Under that, click on the Water Safety tab. Click on lakes, pools and spas. Under lakes click on "view results of water analysis."

How much it will cost: The information is free.