SASKATCHEWAN — Recent water tests have revealed high levels of E. coli at several popular Saskatchewan beaches, prompting health advisories and public warnings.
Sunny Side Beach, also known as Burgis Beach, on the north shore of Good Spirit Lake, is under a water advisory due to elevated E. coli levels. Advisories are also in place for parts of Emma Lake, north of Prince Albert, as well as Etter's Beach and Alice Beach on the west shore of Last Mountain Lake.
The results are part of regular testing conducted under the Healthy Beaches Program, which monitors water quality from June to September to help the public make informed decisions about where it’s safe to swim.
E. coli (Escherichia coli) is an intestinal bacterium found in humans and other mammals. While most strains are harmless, some can cause serious illness. Its presence in water indicates fecal contamination, often from sewage overflows, stormwater runoff or animal waste.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority’s environmental public health department reminds the public that lakes are untreated bodies of water and carry some level of risk. Public health inspectors respond to concerns such as blue-green algae and high bacteria levels to manage potential health threats.
Officials continue to monitor conditions and urge swimmers to check for the before entering the water.
