Beach closures still in effect
WESTERN UPPER PENINSULA — Western U.P. Health Department announced the re-opening of seven bathing beaches on Saturday when a new round of water testing indicated that it was safe to swim.
Besides the select few beaches, all other Western U.P. waters remain closed to recreational activities, including swimming. Surface water samples collected at many inland lakes and Lake Superior beaches still have high levels of E.coli and/or fecal coli-form bacteria that exceed Michigan DEQ and U.S. EPA standards for body contact.
The presence of E.coli and fecal coli-forms means that the water has been contaminated by animal and/or human waste and exposure carries a significant health risk.
The beaches re-opened for recreation so far include: Second Sand Beach north of L’Anse, Fort Wilkins State Park in Copper Harbor, Bete Gris Beach, Eagle Harbor, Calumet Waterworks Park, Lake Medora, and Porcupine Mountains State Park west of Silver City.
For any further questions please contact the WUPHD at (906) 482-7382.