Headline News

Check the water advisory before heading to the beach: SMDHU

July 28, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

You may have a particular beach in Simcoe County where you enjoy summer activities, including swimming; however, before you pack your beach gear in the trunk, you should first check to make sure the beach is going to be a safe spot for entering the water.

The Simcoe Muskoka District has posted beach advisories at ten beaches, and one beach has been closed.

Every summer between June and September, the Health Unit collects water samples from public beaches within Simcoe and Muskoka. Water samples are collected on a weekly basis, but sampling frequencies may be reduced to monthly when historical data indicates water quality was consistently good during the previous sampling season.

Beach sampling frequency is also altered based on environmental conditions such as inclement weather and poor air quality.

In Ontario, water samples are tested for E. coli bacteria, and the beach may be posted when bacteria levels exceed the recreational water quality guideline of 200 E. coli per 100 ml of water.

Beaches may also be unsafe due to excessive weed growth, oil, floating debris, turbidity, and blue-green algae blooms.

In addition to checking water quality reports, you can make your own observations to determine if you should avoid entering waterways.

Rain is the biggest factor that impacts beach water quality, as it washes contaminants into streams, rivers, and lakes. Avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours after heavy rain.

Wind can produce waves which can stir up sand and silt, making the water cloudy. If you can’t see your feet standing waist-deep, bacteria levels may be higher.

Shallow bodies of water are likely to be warmer, and bacteria can increase quickly in warm temperatures. Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands if washrooms are available after playing at the water’s edge.

Locally, the beaches at the Tottenham Conservation Area, as well as Earl Rowe Park, are listed as safe.

If you are planning on travelling to another beach in the region, the following beaches currently have a swimming advisory: Stewart Lake Beach, Georgian Bay. Franklin Park Beach Gravenhurst. Little Lake Park Midland. Pete Pettersen Park, Midland. Huronia Park, Penetanguishene. Atherly, Ball Park Beach, Brechin Beach, Lagoon City Park Beach, and The Steps are all in Ramara. Washago Centennial Park Beach, Severn. Magnus Park, Tay Township.

Little Lake Park, Midland Beach, is now closed.

Readers Comments (0)