Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: July 10, 2003
Contact: Ernest Julian, Ph.D. (401) 222-2749 8:30-4:30 Monday through Friday; cell phone (401) 623-0471

HEALTH Recommends Closing Gorton Pond to Swimming; Reopening Warren Town Beach

The Department of Health (HEALTH) recommended the closure of Gorton Pond in Warwick to swimming due to high bacteria counts. Officials will continue to monitor the water quality and recommend re-opening when the area is safe for swimming.

Conimicut Point and Oakland Beach in Warwick, and part of Third Beach in Middletown remain closed.

HEALTH officials recommended re-opening Warren Town Beach for swimming. This recommendation is based on results from water samples that show bacteria levels within acceptable limits. HEALTH and the Town of Warren will continue to monitor the water quality regularly to assure safe bathing throughout the summer season.

For up to date information about swimming at Rhode Island beaches, go to the HEALTH website at www.health.ri.gov or for recorded information about RI Bathing beaches call (401) 222-2751.