Windward Beach Swimming Barred Due To Bacteria Levels

BRICK, NJ — Windward Beach has been closed to swimming after follow-up water testing by the state Department of Environmental Protection found levels of bacteria that exceeded the state's allowable levels.

The closure happened as a result of testing from two samples taken from two spots at Windward Beach that showed levels of Enterococci bacteria exceeding the state's standard, which is 104 colonies per 100 milliliters of water.

The two samples taken Tuesday showed levels exceeding 600 colonies, according to the state. That level had risen from Monday's tests, which showed 260 colonies per milliliter.

Extreme heat as has been present in recent days can cause bacteria levels to rise, particularly in shallower water.

Any initial sample that exceeds the water quality standard requires that the local health agency issue a swimming advisory at the bathing beach where the sample was collected. Swimming Advisories warn the public of potentially unhealthy water conditions. Additional sampling is conducted until water quality results are again within the standard.

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