Bacteria Level Warning Issued For New Hampshire Seacoast Beach

RYE, NH — Officials warn of high fecal bacteria levels in one of the Seacoast’s more popular beaches.

An advisory has been issued for Wallis Beach, also known as Pirates Cove, from Wallis Street Extension south to Concord Point, due to high bacteria counts in the water, specifically, fecal bacteria levels above acceptable limits.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services notified Town Administrator Matthew Scruton Friday about the bacteria. Routine testing conducted Thursday returned the results, an alert said.

The beach advisories are believed to be due to frequent rain in the region. Bacteria can enter beach water through various sources — including stormwater runoff, malfunctioning septic systems, sewer overflows, wildlife and pet waste, and agricultural runoff.

“Swimming in water contaminated with bacteria can lead to gastrointestinal, respiratory, dermatological, eye, and ear symptoms, and in some cases, more serious illnesses,” an alert stated. “Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.”

Scruton said the town notified lifeguards about the bacteria and posted necessary signage to warn residents and visitors.

More testing will be done on Monday, with results released Tuesday.

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