Several swimming sites in New Jersey are under scrutiny following water tests that revealed higher levels of fecal bacteria. As of June 21, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has issued swimming advisories at five coastal locations in Ocean and Cape May counties.

Elevated Enterococci Levels

The advisories were prompted by elevated levels of enterococci, a type of bacteria commonly used to gauge water quality at swimming sites. The affected areas include Cedar Point Beach and Beachwood Beach West in Ocean County, along with Wildwood, Bay, Baywyn, and Ferry Bay in Lower Township, Cape May County.

Water quality testing is conducted regularly by the DEP in collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Health and local health officials. State standards mandate no more than 104 enterococci colonies per 100 milliliters of water. If a test exceeds this limit, a swimming advisory is announced, and additional samples are collected to monitor improvement.

Advisories and Closures

The presence of a swimming advisory does not automatically lead to the closure of a swimming area. Under state guidelines, beaches are only closed if two consecutive samples fail to meet the standards. Beaches reopen once testing confirms that bacteria levels are within acceptable limits.

On June 21, the DEP’s dashboard indicated no active coastal or freshwater closures, although several bayside sites remain under advisory due to recent test detections.

Broader Testing Results

A broader round of testing on June 16 identified elevated fecal bacteria levels at three ocean beaches in Monmouth County and six river and bay locations along the Jersey Shore. Subsequent testing showed returning acceptable levels for many of these sites.

Sources and Risks

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) points to several potential sources of enterococci, including wastewater treatment discharges, septic system leaks, stormwater runoff, boat sewage, and domestic and wildlife waste.

Though enterococci are generally not harmful, they indicate the possible presence of other pathogens. These organisms can lead to various illnesses affecting the skin, eyes, ears, and respiratory system. Additionally, consuming seafood from contaminated waters carries health risks.

Authorities will persist in monitoring the affected areas and collecting samples until bacteria levels meet standards again.