Media Release
FOR: Immediate Release
DATE: July 23, 1999
CONTACT: Ernest Julian, Ph.D. (401) 222-2749, x 2429)
Lincoln Woods State Park Beach
Closed to Swimming
Providence – Today the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) in cooperation with the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) advised the public that Lincoln Woods State Park Beach in Lincoln, Rhode Island will be closed for swimming until further notice. Other areas of the park itself will remain open.
"The most recent water samples for this beach showed bacteria levels that were above the bathing water standard," said Dr. Patricia Nolan, Director of Health in Rhode Island. "We will recommend reopening the beach when we know it’s safe."
State authorities regularly monitor freshwater beaches for bacteria and other contaminants. Samples taken on July 20th showed elevated fecal coliform bacteria. A large number of waterfowl, reported to frequent the bathing area, may have contributed to the problem. HEALTH advises the public to refrain from feeding waterfowl near public bathing areas.
HEALTH took additional water samples today and should know by late tomorrow afternoon if the bacteria levels have fallen.
Information concerning the status of the beach can be obtained by calling the HEALTH Department Beach Hotline at 222-3430,
X 2497.
For speech or hearing impaired, 1-800-745-5555 (TTY)
Department of Health Website: www.health.state.ri.us
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