Beaches in N.J. Under Swimming Advisories for High Fecal Bacteria Levels

**High Fecal Bacteria Levels Prompt Swimming Advisories at New Jersey Beaches**

Officials from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) have raised concerns regarding water quality at five public beaches, which are currently under swimming advisories due to elevated levels of enterococci bacteria. This type of bacteria serves as an indicator of potential contamination that may emanate from both human and animal waste, posing a risk to public health.

As of June 17, the affected locations include Beachwood Beach West and Cedar Point Beach, situated in Ocean County, as well as three freshwater monitoring sites in Lower Township, Cape May County, which have recorded unsafe levels of bacteria. In light of these findings, authorities are urging swimmers to exercise caution.

The DEP, in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Health and local health officials, conducts regular assessments of coastal waters at public beaches to ensure safety for recreational activities. Current regulatory standards stipulate that enterococci concentrations must not exceed 104 colonies per 100 millilitres of water sampled. When test results surpass this threshold, advisories are issued, and further testing is undertaken until the water quality returns to acceptable levels.

Recent test results from Beachwood Beach West indicated alarming figures, with bacteria concentrations reaching 370 colonies per 100 millilitres. Although the beaches are not automatically closed until a certain threshold is met, they are monitored closely. Swimming prohibitions are enforced when two consecutive samples exceed safety standards. As of the latest updates, only Beesley’s Point Beach in Upper Township remains closed to swimmers.

On June 16, it was reported that various ocean beaches in Monmouth County and multiple river and bay locations along the Jersey Shore also exhibited high levels of fecal bacteria. Fortunately, subsequent tests on the following day showed that these levels had normalised, lifting health concerns at those sites.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified several sources that contribute to the presence of enterococci in recreational waterways. These include discharges from wastewater treatment facilities, compromised septic systems, stormwater runoff, and sewage released from recreational vessels, alongside waste deriving from domestic animals and wildlife.

While the EPA states that enterococci bacteria are generally not considered harmful to humans, their presence may signal the existence of more dangerous pathogens that can inflict illnesses on swimmers. These include viruses, bacteria, and protozoa capable of causing infections affecting the skin, eyes, ears, and respiratory system.

Concerns extend to the consumption of seafood harvested from waters contaminated with fecal matter, as ingestion can lead to serious health complications. This highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and public awareness regarding water quality at popular recreational sites.

The DEP continues to work diligently in partnership with health authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of beachgoers, regularly updating the public on water quality findings. It urges individuals to stay informed and heed advisories when planning to swim or engage in other water-based activities.

As warmer months draw more visitors to New Jersey’s scenic beaches, health officials remain committed to promoting safe recreational experiences while addressing the challenges presented by environmental factors affecting water quality. Swimmers are reminded to remain vigilant and observe safety advisories to protect their health and well-being.