Elevated levels of E. coli in the water at Stoney Lakeside Park has resulted in the beach there being temporarily closed.
The beach is tested for E. coli weekly from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and results can be found on the city website. The State of Michigan notes that swimming water must have a geometric daily mean of less than 300 E. coli per 100 milliliters of water to be considered safe. The most recent report for Stoney Lakeside Beach, with an analytical date of 7/29/24, shows a result of 567.37.
It is not unusual for high levels of E. coli to be found in small inland lakes, especially those frequented by waterfowl. The state website states:
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria live in the digestive systems of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Most strains of the E. coli bacteria are not dangerous, but they can indicate the presence of other disease-causing bacteria…E. coli bacteria do not survive long in water. Factors such as wind and wave action, as well as ultraviolet light from the sun help to reduce the level of bacteria. The amount of time needed to reduce bacteria levels can be unpredictable, however it usually takes less than 48 hours.
The City Lowell posted the following advisory on their Facebook page about the closure:
Attention: Residents and Visitors
We regret to inform you that Stoney Lakeside Beach will be closed today, July 30, 2024, due to elevated E. coli levels detected in the water. The health and safety of our community are our top priorities, and we are taking immediate action to address this issue.
The beach will remain closed until further notice while we conduct thorough testing and implement necessary measures to ensure the water quality meets safety standards. We will provide updates as soon as the situation is resolved.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Please avoid swimming or any water activities at Stoney Lakeside Beach until it is officially reopened.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Leave a Reply