7/16/2010

The Department of Environmental Conservation says that recent water quality samples collected at North Kenai Beach indicate levels of enterococci bacteria in the water.  The DEC is collecting the samples this summer to determine if the water is safe for recreation. 

The DEC is warning that contact with the water that has high levels of this type of bacteria may cause people to have stomachaches, diarrhea, or ear, eye and skin infections.  DEC is suggesting that beach users take normal precautions to avoid exposure.  People are being advised not to drink or swim in the water.  Wash after contact with the water, and, rinse fish harvested from the area with clean water.  The DEC also says that people should cook seafood to a minimum of 145 degrees internal temperature to destroy pathogens. 

DEC collected water quality samples from July 8^th to July 11^th; and, they continue to monitor the water quality.  If levels of bacteria increase significantly, the City of Kenai may post advisory signs at the beach until additional sampling indicates that the bacteria numbers have dropped to safe levels.

Filed under: News by Joe Nicks