Beach closure continues, results indicate high bacteria levels

WESTERN UPPER PENINSULA — Western U.P. Health Department has confirmed that surface water samples collected at inland lakes and Lake Superior beaches still have high levels of E.coli and/or fecal coliform bacteria in exceedance of Michigan DEQ and U.S. EPA standards for body contact. The presence of E.coli and fecal coliforms means that the water has been contaminated by animal and/or human waste and exposure carries a significant health risk.

All beaches in the Western Upper Peninsula (Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Keweenaw & Ontonagon Counties) are closed for recreation uses.  Do not swim, fish, or use small watercraft such as canoe, kayak, or paddle boards where there is likelihood of water contact. The heavy rains, flooding, erosion, and sewer overflows have significantly compromised surface water quality to the point of not being safe.

Health Department staff continue to monitor surface water quality throughout the Western Upper Peninsula and will update the public as conditions change.