High Bacteria Levels Lead To Local Beach Closures

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — High bacteria levels have led to the closure of several Long Island beaches, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health.

Camp Baiting Hollow Beach, on the Long Island Sound, along with Amityville Village Beach in Babylon and Eagle Dock Community Beach in Huntington have all been closed to bathing due to the finding of bacteria at levels in excess of acceptable criteria, a release said.

Tanner Park Beach in the Town of Babylon and Lake Ronkonkoma in the Town of Islip remain closed as lab results indicate the continuation of excess bacteria, the release added.

Bacteria can be introduced to recreational waters from a variety of sources, including stormwater runoff, resident waterfowl populations, failing or poorly operating septic systems, sewage spills, boats and marinas, floatable debris, and from bathers, the Suffolk County Dept. of Health said.

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 reopen when further testing reveals that the bacteria have subsided to acceptable levels. Benjamins Beach in Islip has reopened.

For the latest information on affected beaches, call the bathing beach hot line at 631-852-5822 or contact the Department's Office of Ecology at 852-5760 during normal business hours.

Patch file photo.