Lakelands Public Health Launches Beach Water Monitoring Program

Media Release by Lakelands Public Health:

Lakelands Public Health is launching its annual Beach Water Monitoring Program starting June 15, 2026, helping residents and visitors stay safe while enjoying local beaches across the region.

Throughout the summer, Lakelands Public Health staff will monitor water quality at 76 municipally owned and operated public beaches across the County of Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, and the City and County of Peterborough. Water samples are tested for E. coli bacteria, an indicator of potential contamination and increased risk of illness.

New this year, Lakelands Public Health is installing updated signage at beaches across the region to make water conditions easier to understand. The signs use a clear, three-colour system:

These signs are designed to help the public quickly determine when it is safe to enter the water and support informed decision-making while at the beach. Natural bodies of water always contain some levels of bacteria. While monitoring helps identify when risk is higher, there is always some level of risk associated with swimming in untreated water.

“Regular beach water monitoring helps protect the health of our communities by identifying potential risks and sharing timely information,” said Bernie Mayer, Environmental Health Manager with Lakelands Public Health. “The new signage makes it easier for residents to understand current conditions and make informed decisions to protect themselves and their families.”

Beach water quality can change quickly and is often affected by rainfall, wildlife, and runoff. Swimming in contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes, and eye, ear, nose, or throat infections. Beach closed postings are more likely to occur after heavy rain or during extended periods of hot weather.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to check posted signage and our website LakelandsPH.ca/BeachCheck before swimming and avoid entering the water during and for at least 48 hours after heavy rainfall.

In addition to regular monitoring, Lakelands Public Health reminds the public to watch for blue-green algae blooms, which can pose health risks. Suspected blooms should be reported to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) Spills Action Centre at 1-866-663-8477.

Beach water test results are available online throughout the summer season running June 15 to August 31, 2026. Lakelands Public Health encourages everyone to check before you swim and take simple precautions to reduce the risk of illness while enjoying local beaches.

For more information, visit LakelandsPH.ca/BeachCheck or follow us on social @PHLakelands for beach water monitoring updates.