Friday, July 23, 2021
Update 3:14 pm.
Interior Health has advised the CSRD that the most recent water tests are showing acceptable levels of E Coli bacteria in the water of Shuswap Lake off Sandy Beach.
The swimming advisory which was put in place on Friday, July 16, 2021, is lifted effective today, Friday, July 23, 2021.
For the safety of the public, the water at Sandy Beach is routinely tested on a weekly basis.
The CSRD extends its thanks to residents and visitors for their patience during the temporary swim advisory.
Original Post July 16, 2021
The Sandy Beach swimming area in Blind Bay has been placed on a swimming advisory due to unacceptable Ecoli bacterial counts found in recent routine water samples.
The beach is not closed, however, Interior Health is advising that due to the elevated water sample results, the public should be made aware of the increased risk of swimming at Sandy Beach, which is located at 2475 Blind Bay Road, Blind Bay.
Swimming is not recommended at this time.
Follow-up water samples are being taken and the advisory will be rescinded once samples show acceptable bacteria levels. The water at Sandy Beach is routinely tested on a weekly basis.
Interior Health reports there can be a number of reasons for elevated levels including wildlife, such as geese, causing an increase in bacteria levels. The weather can also play a factor, with temperature increasing bacterial growth.
Sandy Beach will remain open, but users are advised against swimming due to this elevated risk. Young children, for example, tend to ingest a lot of water when they are at the beach so they are at higher risk.
Please continue to check the CSRD website and social media for updates on the status of the beach. For further questions, contact the CSRD at: 250-832-8194. Information can also be found.