E. Coli Advisories Lifted At 3 Salem Beaches

SALEM, NH — Three town beaches were closed earlier this month due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, but the beaches have now reopened. No-swimming advisories had been issued at Shadow Lake, Captain's Pond at Camp Otter and the Arlington Pond Improvement Association swim areas. These beaches were brought back to compliance with safety standards and are now deemed safe for swimming, according to town officials.

Elevated E. coli levels were found at the three beaches during testing on July 9. In addition, the Camp Otter swimming area tested too high for E. Coli on July 11 and July 15, according to information released by the town. Tests done on July 18 showed lowered E. coli levels that met the state standards.

The testing was done four times between July 9 and July 18 at all Salem's beaches, with two samples being collected each time. The results were sent to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services laboratory in Concord for analysis. Other beaches tested — Hedegehog Pond, Millville Lake and Arlington Pond at Second Street Beach — were in compliance with the state's safety standards for E. coli, town officials have stated. During testing in June, all town beaches met the safety standards. Additional testing is planned for early August.

Those seeking more information may call the town's health officer at 603-890-2050.