BURRILLVILLE – The Rhode Island Department of Health closed Spring Lake Beach to swimming on Tuesday, June 11, cautioning potential beach-goers that the water has high levels of bacteria.
The beach remained closed as of Friday, June 14, although RIDOH officials said there was a possibility it could reopen on Saturday.
Water samples taken on Wednesday, June 12 reportedly continued to show high levels of bacteria.
On Friday, beach management was working with the state agency to take additional samples for testing. RIDOH’s beach monitoring program reviews beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout the summer season.
The cause of the bacteria remains unknown. The beach has had similar problems in past years, particularly in the early months of the summer season.
Health officials note that there are multiple potential sources of the bacteria, including factors such as geese or dogs. In the past, the problem has resolved itself and water has remained safe for swimming throughout the summer.
Results of the testing take 24 hours, and RIDOH is expected to issue an update sometime on Saturday, June 15.
If the water is found to be safe, the beach could reopened for the weekend.
The status of a beach may change on a daily basis.
The most up-to-date beach information is always available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line, 401-222-2751.
