Swimming Advisory Issued for Two Local Beaches

Two Jersey Shore beaches are under swimming advisories this week after water testing revealed elevated levels of fecal bacteria, according to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).

The affected beaches are 2nd and JFK ocean beach in North Wildwood and Beachwood Beach West river beach in Beachwood. Water samples collected on Monday and Tuesday showed bacteria levels that exceed safe swimming standards, with results released Wednesday.

The advisory designation means these beaches are potentially unsafe for swimming. Both locations exceeded the state's standard of 104 colonies of enterococci bacteria per 100 milliliters of water sample. If two consecutive samples continue to show elevated levels, the DEP will close the beaches entirely until bacteria counts return to acceptable levels.

Enterococci bacteria, commonly found in animal and human waste, serves as a key indicator of water quality. Swimming in water contaminated with high levels of this bacteria can pose significant health risks to beachgoers. The bacteria typically enters coastal waters through several pathways, including storm water runoff, sewage discharged from recreational boats, and waste from domestic animals and wildlife.

Health officials warn that exposure to polluted water can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms. Swimmers may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sore throat, runny nose, earaches, skin rashes, and flu-like symptoms after contact with contaminated water.

The DEP continues to monitor water quality at beaches throughout the Jersey Shore. Families planning beach outings are encouraged to check current water quality advisories before heading to the shore, particularly following heavy rainfall or storm events that can wash contaminants into coastal waters.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of regular water quality testing in protecting public health at our community beaches. The state's monitoring program helps ensure that residents and visitors can make informed decisions about where and when to swim safely along our coastline.