3 Suffolk Beaches Closed To Bathing

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY - Three Suffolk beaches have been shut down due to the finding of bacteria at levels that exceed acceptable criteria, the Department of Health announced on Monday.

West Oaks Recreation Club Beach in the Town of Islip and Sound Beach Property Owners Association West Beach and Shirley Beach, both in the town of Brookhaven, are closed to bathing.

In addition, Tanner Park Beach, Corey Beach, Benjamins Beach, Bayport Beach, Sayville Marina Park Beach and Lake Ronkonkoma remain closed to bathing due to the continuation of excess bacteria.

Bacteria can be introduced to recreational waters from a variety of sources, including storm water runoff, resident waterfowl populations, failing or poorly operating septic systems, sewage spills, boats and marinas, floatable debris, and from bathers themselves.

According to Suffolk County Commissioner of Health Dr. James Tomarken, bathing in bacteria-contaminated water can result in gastrointestinal illness, as well as infections of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

Beaches will reopen when further testing reveals that the bacteria have subsided to acceptable levels.

For the latest information on affected beaches, call the Bathing Beach HOTLINE at 852-5822 or contact the Department's Office of Ecology at 852-5760 during normal business hours.

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