Latest Updates
- June 30 - 22 Western U.P. beaches still closed for swimming
- June 29 - 19 beaches open, but heavy rain can cause issues
- June 28 - 17 lakes open, nine on advisory
- June 27 - Health Department Continues Monitoring Water Quality; Re-opens Twin Lakes State Park to Swimming
This is an official press release from the Western U.P. Health Department. It was released Wednesday, June 27.
Health Department Continues Monitoring Water Quality; Re-opens Twin Lakes State Park to Swimming
Western U.P. Health Department announced the re-opening of beaches at Eagle River and Twin Lakes State Park when a new round of water testing indicated that it was safe to swim. There are a total of eight bathing beaches that have been determined to be safe by the health department. 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 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.
The beaches re-opened for recreation so far include: Eagle River, Twin Lakes State Park, Second Sand Beach north of L’Anse, Fort Wilkins State Park in Copper Harbor, Bete Gris Beach, Eagle Harbor, Calumet Waterworks Park, and Lake Medora. Porcupine Mountains State Park has been moved back to the advisory list, as bacteria levels in this area have increased.
It is summer in the U.P. and the Fourth of July Holiday is fast approaching. WUPHD is aware that area residents are eager to access beaches and recreational waters. To help make sure everyone is able to do that as quickly and safely as possible, the department is conducting on-going water sampling and testing. Residents will be updated as conditions change and additional beaches are opened. Announcements will be made to the media and posted at wupdhd.org. If you have questions regarding swimming safety, contact WUPHD at (906) 482-7382.
