Date: Fri 17-Jul-1998

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

Lake-Zoar-bacteria-pollution

Full Text:

Bacteria Levels Drop In Lake Zoar

Residents are free to head back into the waters of Lake Zoar this week.

Health District Director Mark Cooper announced Tuesday that levels of the

bacteria enterococci have dropped significantly below the danger levels.

"The latest test results show that everything is well within the acceptable

standards," he said.

Recent heavy rain showers caused the levels of the enterococci bacteria to

escalate last week, forcing the state to close several beaches. In Newtown, Mr

Cooper put out a "no swimming" advisory for both the Riverside and Cedarhurst

beach areas.

The bacteria is not overly harmful, according to Mr Cooper. However, it can

cause irritations to the skin, especially for those who already experience

symptoms.