All Beverly Beaches Open To Swimming After Summer Bacteria Closures

BEVERLY, MA — All Beverly beaches are reopened to swimming entering the final week of the traditional summer season.

Brackenbury Beach, the last beach that was on the list of those off-limits to swimming because of high bacteria counts likely caused by fecal contamination, was cleared for water activities, according to the city.

Beverly beaches have been plagued with high bacteria levels amid the excessive rain since June with up to six closed at one point. The contamination is often caused by stormwater runoff following substantial rains.

The bacteria used as indicator organisms to test the waters at beaches are Enterococci and E. coli. Marine beaches are tested for the presence of Enterococci. Freshwater beaches are tested either for the presence of E. coli or Enterococci.

Enteric bacteria are indicator organisms found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans often associated with fecal contamination.

An elevated presence of these organisms indicates the water may not be safe for human or animal consumption or contact and cause symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal pain to eye and ear discomfort to flu-like symptoms.

Most of these symptoms are minor, but occasionally a more serious illness may occur. Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing serious
symptoms.

Some beach areas may remain open for recreational activities, though any contact with the water is strongly discouraged.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)