After five Five Jersey Shore beaches went under advisories for high levels of fecal bacterial this week and a north country state park kept Lake Ontario off limits to swimmers during the last week in June, Upstate New Yorkers may be wondering if it's safe to swim in nearby lakes and rivers this summer.
High levels of fecal bacteria, specifically enterococci, are commonly found in the intestines, and animal excrement was detected in water samples from the New Jersey beaches on July 1.
On June 26, high levels of E. coli were found in Lake Ontario near the town of Ellisburg, NY, at Southwick Beach State Park, causing the state to close the beach. Earlier that week, E. coli contamination led the state to close Westcott Beach State Park, 10 miles away. The beach has since reopened.
Swimming in NY:Durand-Eastman Beach, Genesee Valley Park pool open for season
Health officials say the lake's bacteria surge could be because of the area's recent rain.
Furthermore, climate change intensifies storms, resulting in untreated sewage and other pollutants discharged into New York's waterways.
Swimming in water contaminated with fecal matter can lead to serious health issues such as gastroenteritis, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and infections of the ear, nose, and throat, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The EPA also warns that young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of falling ill from such water.
How to find water test results for Monroe County
For Durand Eastman and Ontario beach closings, the Monroe County Hotline can be reached at (585) 753-5885. Residents can also email Water@monroecounty.gov for details.
Genae Shields is the business & development impact reporter. Reach out at gshields@gannett.com or on Instagram:@genaebriphoto for questions, comments, or concerns. Thank you for your continued support!
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