General News

Beach monitoring program now underway across Simcoe Muskoka

July 2, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

With warmer weather now here, going to a local beach to cool off and have some fun will be on many local residents’ lists of activities.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding residents and visitors to assess beach conditions before entering the water. You should check water clarity, be mindful of the weather, and be aware of any visible concerns before entering the water at local beaches.

Before going to the beach, it is advised that you check the SMDHU’s beach water advisory web page for the latest information on swimming advisories at public beaches around the region.

Throughout the summer, more than 75 public beaches across Simcoe Muskoka are routinely monitored and tested for E.coli bacteria. Elevated levels of E. Coli can increase the risk of illness and infection for swimmers.

When bacteria levels exceed Ontario’s recreational water quality guidelines, a swimming advisory is issued and remains in effect until follow-up testing confirms the water is safe for swimming.

In rare cases where a significant health or safety risk exists, a beach may be closed.

Because beach water quality can change quickly due to weather and environmental conditions, recent test results may not always reflect conditions at the time of your visit.

“We’re really encouraging people to check in before they get in,” said Karen Kivilahti, program manager, Safe Water. “While our testing provides important information, beachgoers should always assess current conditions and make informed decisions before entering the water.”

Heavy rainfall can wash bacteria and other contaminants, including animal waste and garbage, into lakes and along shorelines.

To reduce the risk of illness, the SMDHU recommends avoiding swimming for 24 to 48 hours following a significant rainfall. If you do enter the water, avoid submerging your head and never swallow lake water.

Strong winds and large numbers of swimmers can also affect water quality by stirring up sand and sediment, potentially increasing bacterial levels.

A simple rule of thumb is: If you cannot see your feet while standing in waist-deep water, bacteria levels may be higher than usual.

Warm, shallow water and wet sand can create conditions that allow bacteria such as E. Coli to multiply more easily.

Beach visitors are advised to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before eating.

In addition to bacterial testing, beaches are monitored for environmental conditions that may affect public health, including blue-green algae blooms, floating debris, excessive weed growth, and cloudy water.

Before heading to the beach, you can check the latest advisories and beach water quality information on the Health Unit’s website at smdhu.org/beaches.

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