NEWS: Wake Closes Beaverdam Beach Due to High Bacteria Levels

6/9/2009

Wake County has closed the recreational swimming area at Beaverdam Beach on Falls Lake due to elevated levels of bacteria, based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. The County routinely tests recreational lakes for bacteria, including Enterococci. When bacteria levels exceed EPA standards, the area is closed to "primary contact recreation," which is swimming or any activity where your head may go underwater. The County samples the lakes weekly each summer.

"Our goal is to eliminate the potential for citizens to come into contact with excessive levels of bacteria, as that could result in creating illness conditions for individuals. We will continue to collect water samples on a daily basis for the area and reopen the lake for swimming as soon as the bacteria levels fall below the EPA-established standards," said Wake County Environmental Services Director Tommy Esqueda. "After we observe two consecutive days of acceptable bacteria levels, the area will be reopened for recreation."

The lake is not closed to fishing. County staff suggests that citizens call their recreational lake facilities to find out if they are open to swimming. Citizens are also reminded to always wash hands with soap and water, and thoroughly shower after swimming, tubing or skiing in area lakes.

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