Swimming Advisory Issued For Simmons Park Due To Fecal Pollution

RUSKIN, FL — The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has issued a public health advisory for Simmons Park Beach due to high bacteria levels.

This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public, and swimming is not recommended.

Samples taken were above the threshold for enterococci bacteria. The presence of enteric bacteria is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage.

The beach will be re-sampled in a week. When re-sampling indicates that the water is within the satisfactory range, the advisory will be lifted.