Island Health will pay close attention to the high E. coli count at Beaver Lake after issuing a swim advisory last weekend.
Beaver and Elk lakes have a shared history of high E. coli when the warm weather activates the E. coli in the waste of the local Canada geese population, as well as other water fowl.
The Beaver Lake warning was still in effect on Monday but could be removed by today (June 25) as a weekend test of the E. coli resulted in lower concentrations.
A swim advisory was also posted for the waters off Cordova Bay, which registered a concerning swell of enterococci, a fecal-derived bacteria from seagulls.
“All our swimming waters will continue to be tested weekly,” said Island Health media manager Sarah Plank.
“It’s a good time to be aware that swimming in any untreated water source, whether it’s been tested or not, presents a potential of getting sick,” Plank said.
“After swimming it’s always a good idea to wash your hands before you eat and/or shower when you get home.”
Though a high E. coli count nearly affected Elk Lake’s Self Transcendence in 2011 the waters of Beaver and Elk lakes are rarely closed. Visit viha.ca for the latest health advisories, or check with local municipalities.
reporter@saanichnews.com