High Bacteria Levels at Arden Beach on Severn River Prompts Warning

Crownsville, MD — The Anne Arundel County Department of Health issued an advisory Tuesday for swimmers to avoid the water at Arden Beach at Oakview Drive in Crownsville because of high levels of bacteria.

Officials say residents should avoid swimming, water skiing and other direct water contact at the beach on the Severn River.

Signs have been posted at beach noting the advisory to the public.

The department urges people who have come in contact with the affected water to wash well with soap and warm water immediately. Clothing should also be washed.

The beach is tested regularly during the summer by the department, which says The advisory will remain in effect until water samples show bacteria levels have dropped to meet federal safety standards.

Factors such as rainfall, waterfowl, water temperature and tidal action can cause high bacteria readings.

For more information on the status of the advisory, call the Water Quality Line, 410-222-7999, or visit www.aahealth.org.

After rainfall of half an inch or more, all Anne Arundel County beaches are under a no swimming/no direct water contact advisory for at least 48 hours due to predicted elevated bacteria levels from rainwater runoff. Do not swim in cloudy, murky water.

Check www.aahealth.org/beach for Anne Arundel County beach water results from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

»Photo from Anne Arundel County Department of Health