The Health Department of Northwest Michigan (HDNW) is issuing a full body beach advisory for Richardi Park, in the Village of Bellaire, Antrim County. This is an elevated advisory based on the water sampling results from Tuesday. The advisory is posted at the beach.

The water sample taken on Tuesday showed an E. coli level of 2,419.6 per 100 milliliters (mL). According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) water quality standards, E. coli levels testing over 1,000 per 100 mL qualify for full body contact advisory, which means no full body contact with the water. Beach goers are recommended to use other beaches in the area. The beach is located at E. Antrim Street, Bellaire.

Water sampling is done by HDNW throughout the summer months to monitor E. coli levels at many public beaches. The levels change frequently, impacted by the presence of waterfowl, waves, and more. When a sample triggers an advisory of any type, the water at that beach is sampled daily until test results indicate it is safe for recreational use again. The results are shared to keep the public updated.

HDNW posts beach monitoring reports on social media and weekly on the website at nwhealth.org/beach-monitoring-program. Through an EGLE supported web-based program, the public has real-time access to beach water quality results for beaches all over Michigan. Information can be found at www.egle.state.mi.us/beach.

To stay updated on all health-related news, subscribe to our monthly newsletter here. If you're looking for more information about HDNW, call us locally at 800-432-4121 or visit our website at nwhealth.org.