County Closes 9 LI Sound Beaches Due To High Bacteria Levels

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY — The Westchester County Health Department has closed nine beaches on Long Island Sound as a precaution because of high levels of rainfall in the past 24 hours.

The high levels of rain could lead to elevated bacteria levels, county officials said. If excessive rainfall does not occur in the next 24 hours, beaches may reopen on Tuesday.

The closed beaches:

MAMARONECK:

• Harbor Island
• Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club
• Orienta Beach Club
• Beach Point Club

RYE:

• Coveleigh Club

NEW ROCHELLE:

• Hudson Park Beach
• Davenport Club
• Greentree Club
• Surf Club

Increased amounts of polluted stormwater mean high fecal bacteria counts and associated pathogens in the water The fecal indicator bacteria concentration in water at a beach determines whether or not the water is safe for people to swim in.

Beaches have been closed intermittently all summer, including nine on June 7.

The county's Beach Surveillance Program is designed to protect the public from illnesses associated with swimming in waters that are contaminated.

It's a recurring problem neither the county nor the municipalities whose stormwater systems and illegal sewage hookups drain into the Long Island Sound have been able to solve.

Save the Sound said that everyone can help reduce sewage pollution sources by conserving water which will lessen the wear-and-tear on the water infrastructure and reduce sewage overflows by lowering the volume of water in the system. The organization also recommends that homeowners repair sewer lines that connect their homes to municipal sewers or maintain their septic systems. Dog owners should put pet waste in the trash and never in a catch basin or on the street. Communities and homeowners can create rain gardens to help reduce runoff. If you see sewage overflowing in your community, you can email a photo or video with details about the time and location to this address.

SEE: Heavy Rains Make For Dismal LI Sound: Week 6 Water Quality Report

Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the Westchester County website for the latest updates on beach closures and reopening schedules.