Officials are warning beach goers in Ferrysburg to be cautious after high levels of e-coli have continued to contaminate the lake water.
High levels of e-coli had been discovered at North Park Beach in Ferrysburg, just north of Grand Haven and across the bascule bridge. Authorities in the first week of July had issued a no-body-contact advisory, meaning, stay out of the water.
Authorities blame the bacteria on nearby dredging operations in Grand Haven.
Since then, levels of e-coli in Ferrysburg have been “fluctuating,” and while officials say it is okay to swim at North Park Beach, the Ottawa County Department of Public Health is urging residents and visitors to take precaution.
The OCDPH recommended that visitors avoid swallowing lake water or getting it in their mouth, and to wash their hands with water and soap before eating. And be smart--avoid swimming in the water if it looks polluted and shower when you return home or to your hotel.
The latest water sample collected on Tuesday, July 18, indicated E. coli levels were just over the acceptable levels for total body contact, according to Ottawa County.
