PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Ramona Park Beach on Long Lake is temporarily closed due to the detection of higher than standard amounts of E. coli.
Pending the results of further testing, it is expected that the beach will reopen on Wednesday, August 24.
Long Lake is tested weekly by the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department. Sample results collected on Monday, August 22, indicated E. coli levels to be 353.22 per 100 ml, which exceeds the total body contact standard of 300 E. coli per 100 ml.
Based upon these sample results, KCHCS has advised the public to avoid total body contact with the surface water in the bathing beach area on Long Lake at Ramona Park.
Out of an abundance of caution, the City of Portage has closed Ramona Park Beach.
KCHCS collected additional samples on Tuesday, August 23, and expects to make the results available by 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 24.
When surface water quality meets the above-mentioned Water Quality Standards the public health advisory will be lifted, and the beach will be opened to the public.
Questions and concerns can be directed to KCHCS at 269-373-5349.
