Point Judith Pond, Scarborough Reopened, Burlingame Closed

NARRAGANSETT, RI — As July turns over to a new month, August is starting with several reopened beaches and a new round of closures. On Thursday, Scarborough Beach South was reopened to swimming, while Point Judith Pond was reopened to shellfishing. At the same time, Burlingame Picnic Area was closed.

The Rhode Island Department of Health said bacteria levels at Scarborough Beach and Point Judith Pond have returned to safe levels. Both Scarborough Beach North and South were closed on Tuesday. The North beach was reopened just one day later.

As of midnight on Thursday, Point Judith Pond was declared safe for shellfishing, the Department of Environmental Management said. The pond was closed suddenly on July 28 and all shellfish harvested from the area was ordered to be thrown out.

The latest closure is Burlingame Picnic Area Beach, part of Watchaug Pond in Charlestown. Camp Watchaug, part of the same body of water and Briar Point Beach in Coventry were both closed due to high bacteria levels on Wednesday.

The most up-to-date beach information is available from the department of health by calling their prerecorded beach line at 401-222-2751.