Elevated Bacteria Levels Reported At 2 East Lyme Beaches

EAST LYME, CT — The Ledge Light Health District found elevated levels of bacteria at Giants Neck Heights and Old Black Point Beach, both in East Lyme. Swimming advisories have been posted at both locations.

The health district released the following statement: "Ledge Light Health District conducted bathing water sampling on Monday August 3, 2020 and all beach samples except Giants Neck Heights (jetty), Old Black Point Beach, & Attawan Beach in the town of East Lyme, and Roger's Lake in the town of Old Lyme, were below the bacterial action levels set by the State of Connecticut. The areas with elevated bacterial counts were re-sampled Wednesday August 5, 2020. Results of the re-samples showed levels below the bacterial action level at Attawan Beach in East Lyme and Roger's Lake in Old Lyme, however elevated bacterial counts persisted at Giants Neck Heights (jetty) & Old Black Point Beach in East Lyme. These areas have been posted with a swimming advisory and swimming is discouraged until further notice.

"Please be aware that rain or other contaminating events occurring before the Monday and Wednesday morning sampling can lead to elevated bacterial counts, especially in bathing areas with storm water runoff (storm drain pipes and/or extensive impervious surfaces) or low water turnover (inland bathing areas). We recommend those individuals responsible for the bathing areas take these events into consideration.

"For a list of beach locations, please visit our website at: http://llhd.org/beaches or call us if you have any questions at 860-448-4882."