Water quality advisory issued for Brohard Beach, Paw Park

VENICE — Health officials issued a water quality advisory for Brohard Beach and Paw Park — both designed to allow pets — due to high bacteria counts.

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County advised people against any water-related activities in the parks "due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers," the advisory states.

"Tests completed Monday … indicate that the water quality at Brohard Beach and Paw Park does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health," the advisory stated.

Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines.

This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. Test results are available at:

FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches

For more information, call 941-861-2900 or visit:

sarasota.floridahealth.gov