By Rosalind Russell – Public Health Sudbury & Districts is conducting the pre-seasonal assessment of all public beaches to ensure the beach is suitable for public recreational use.
According to the release, the process includes sampling the water for E. coli and conducting safety checks for hazards that would render the beach area unsafe, which will start today until June 29th. Throughout the summer, Public Health Sudbury & Districts regularly samples the water at 33 local public beaches including the North Shore corridor and Manitoulin Island.
Beginning July 4th, all public beaches will be inspected, and water tested monthly until September for analyzed E. coli bacteria, which normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals.
If water samples show elevated concentrations of bacteria, Public Health will post signs and daily samples will be collected to monitor water quality.
The swimming advisory signs will remain until tests show bacteria levels have returned to acceptable levels.
Photo: Espanola’s Clear Lake Beach is one of several that will be subject to water testing throughout the summer season by Public Health Sudbury & Districts to ensure safe swimming conditions. Photo by Rosalind Russell