High E. Coli Levels In 4 Shrewsbury Ponds After Heavy Rain

SHREWSBURY, MA — Local residents should avoid contact with four local ponds due to high levels of E. coli bacteria, according to town health officials.

The elevated E. coli levels were detected after recent water tests at Gauch Park Pond, Jordan Pond, Newton Pond and the Oak Island Boat Ramp on Flint Pond.

It's common for high levels of E. coli to be present in water bodies following heavy rainstorms, which wash debris and contaminants into ponds, streams and lakes, health officials said. Shrewsbury got more than an inch of rain on Tuesday, and there's more in the forecast for Thursday night and Saturday night.

"Town officials encourage individuals and their pets to avoid contact at the above-mentioned bodies of water, including fishing, until further notice," the Shrewsbury Health Department said.

E. coli is a common but potentially harmful bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal distress, and severe kidney infections in some cases.