New Jersey Beaches: Elevated Bacteria Levels Raise Concerns

Several swimming areas in New Jersey are under scrutiny due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria in the water. As of June 21, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reported swimming advisories at five coastal sites in Ocean and Cape May counties. The advisories result from high levels of enterococci bacteria, a key indicator of water quality at recreational swimming spots.

The DEP issued advisories for Cedar Point Beach and Beachwood Beach West in Ocean County. In Cape May County, Wildwood and Bay, Baywyn and Bay, and Ferry and Bay in Lower Township are affected. Water testing at public recreational bathing beaches in New Jersey is conducted regularly by the DEP alongside the New Jersey Department of Health and local health officials.

State guidelines allow no more than 104 enterococci colonies per 100 milliliters of water. When water quality testing exceeds this threshold, a swimming advisory occurs, and additional tests are taken until water quality improves. An advisory does not necessarily lead to swimming area closures.

Beaches are closed to swimmers after two consecutive samples continue to show poor water quality. As of June 21, the DEP’s monitoring dashboard indicates no active closures for coastal or freshwater recreation areas. Several bayside locations remain under advisory due to recent test results showing elevated bacteria levels.

On June 16, high fecal bacteria levels were detected at three Monmouth County ocean beaches and six Jersey Shore river and bay locations. Subsequent testing revealed many of these sites have returned to acceptable levels.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies potential sources of enterococci, including discharges from wastewater treatment plants, leaking septic systems, stormwater runoff, sewage from recreational boats, and waste from animals and wildlife. Although enterococci are typically not harmful to humans, their presence suggests other harmful organisms might be present in the water.

These organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, can cause various illnesses impacting the skin, eyes, ears, and respiratory system. The EPA also cautions against consuming seafood from waters contaminated by fecal matter, which may pose health risks.

Authorities will continue to monitor the affected areas and collect additional samples until water quality meets acceptable standards once more.