3 Suffolk Beaches Closed To Bathing

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY - Amityville Village Beach and Benjamins Beach in the Town of Islip as well as Venetian Shores Beach in the Town of Babylon are closed to bathing due to the finding of bacteria in excess of acceptable criteria.

Tanner Park Beach in Babylon and Lake Ronkonkoma remain closed as lab results indicate 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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