Clark County Public Health has issued a swim beach warning at Battle Ground lake after routine testing determined there were elevated levels of E. coli bacteria.
If water with the bacteria is accidentally swallowed, it can cause “serious gastrointestinal illness,” stated a news release from the county.
Test results for one of five water samples at the lake on June 13 showed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. The other samples included bacteria levels in the acceptable water quality standards, stated the release.
Warning signs have been posted at the lake.
“While the warning is in place, public health advises against swimming and wading, especially for young children who are more likely to accidentally swallow water,” stated the release. “People who have contact with the water at the swim beach should rinse off after.”
Public health was set to collect additional samples on June 21. The results of those tests were set to determine whether the warning would be lifted or if the beach would be closed.
Battle Ground Lake State Park remains open to the public, stated the release. Park visitors can still catch and consume fish in the lake, but should make sure all of the fish and equipment is cleaned thoroughly, stated the release.
Clark County Public Health also issued a beach closure on June 10 for Vancouver Lake because of elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Public health collected additional water samples on June 15 and were awaiting results from the lab.
