Tests for fecal bacteria at popular swimming spots in Nanaimo is set to get underway June 14. (City of Nanaimo)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

regular testing

Water testing getting underway at Nanaimo outdoor swim spots

Jun 10, 2022 | 9:57 AM

NANAIMO — Checks and balances are being done to local swimming holes ahead of the summer months.

The City of Nanaimo is set to begin conducting its annual testing of public, outdoor swimming spots for water-bourne issues including fecal bacteria stemming from animal waste.

Testing is done at Brannen Lake, Colliery Dam Park, Departure Bay beach, Long Lake, Maffeo Sutton Park and Westwood Lake.

“Pet owners are reminded to take their dogs to designated dog parks and off-leash areas,” a release from the City noted. “With shore birds and other naturally occurring wildlife in and around water bodies, adding pets to the mix could elevate the levels of fecal coliforms (bacteria).”

Pets are barred from City beaches, lakes, streams and swimming spots from the start of May through to the end of September each year.

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Exceptions are made for designated off-leash areas such as upper Colliery Dam Park.

City crews will take four samples on a weekly basis through the summer from each of the six locations.

Provincial health guidelines set a maximum allowable amount of contaminants in collected water samples, with beaches closed if issues arise in the testing.

Results are published after each test on the City of Nanaimo website.

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