Stay out of the water at Kenneydell Park on Black Lake, county officials warn

High levels of a bacteria were found in the water at Kenneydell Beach on Black Lake last week, prompting officials to post warning signs for people to stay out of the water.

According to a news release from the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services department, elevated levels of fecal coliform were found in water collected July 18. Another set of samples will be collected Monday, July 24, to see how the water has improved.

People are being advised to keep their pets out of the water as well. Those who are exposed to the bacteria can experience an upset stomach and similar symptoms, but it generally doesn’t pose any major health risks.

According to the release, fecal coliform lives in warm-blooded animals such as people, livestock, pets and wildlife. It indicates contamination by sewage or feces.

Swimmer’s itch, a rash-causing parasite, was also found in water samples at the lake.

The advisory will continue until water quality improves, and signs will be taken down from the entrance to the park.

Stuart Whitford, program manager for the county’s Environmental Health division, said people should find another place to swim and wade until the advisory is lifted.

“With the forecast for sunny warm weather, I’m sure lots of people hoped to hit the beach at Kenneydell this weekend,” he said.

You can learn more about keeping yourself safe from water-borne illnesses on the county health department’s website.

This story was originally published July 24, 2023 at 11:32 AM.