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Popular swim spots, including Long Lake in Nanaimo, are again being regularly tested for E. coli and other bacterial strains to ensure safety. (Image Credit: File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)
annual testing

Water testing, sewer inspections underway across mid-Island

Jun 21, 2026 | 6:45 AM

NANAIMO — Work to verify both the safety of local swim spots and the sturdiness of underground infrastructure is underway.

City of Nanaimo crews, along with the Nanaimo Port Authority, are in the process of testing water quality at six popular outdoor swimming areas ahead of the busy summer season.

Included are Brannen Lake, Colliery Dam Park, Departure Bay, Long Lake, Swy-A-Lana Lagoon, and Westwood Lake, testing the amount of E. coli bacteria in each sample and whether it’s below Provincial health guidelines.

Twenty-four samples are taken weekly and sent for testing.

Testing which shows higher-than-permissible levels of bacteria in the water will prompt a beach closure, which occurred in 2025 in both Lantzville and Ladysmith.

The bacteria are typically from shoreline birds and other wildlife found in waterfront areas, however the City notes dogs can also contribute to the issue.

Owners are advised to keep dogs in only designated parks or off-leash areas, with dogs not allowed on public beaches between May and September.

In Parksville, a contractor is preparing for a significant look under the road surface at the City’s sewer infrastructure.

Beginning Monday, June 22, work crews will be inspecting sanitary and storm sewer lines, with work expected to last until the fall.

High-resolution footage will be taken of pipes across the city to aid future asset management discussions.

Storm lines are poised to be inspected towards the north end of the community, around Oceanside Elementary School, while sanitary line work will be concentrated in and around Parksville’s downtown core.

“The inspections include condition ratings and CCTV video links of the piping, which are integrated into the City’s GIS system and provide valuable insights into the status and performance of our underground utility infrastructure,” the City noted in a statement.

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