Rocky Neck State Park beach reopens after high bacteria levels scare

The beach at Rocky Neck State Park has reopened after being closed for high bacteria levels.

Several other beaches and lakes have closed recently for the same reason, including Indian Well State park and Lake Waramaug State Park State Park.

“It’s actually very shocking. I didn’t know that it was closed,” said beachgoer Drew Pompono.

Had he known about the increased levels Wednesday, he said he wouldn’t have gone in the water.

“I think they need to watch out for the water and test it more frequently to make sure this doesn’t happen,” Pompono said.

After the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection collected water samples to test for bacteria, several beaches and lakes were closed due to increased levels.

“We’re seeing some high levels of one of the bacteria, which is a good indicator of other bacteria that may be involved as well. They test for Enterococcus, which is kind of a marker for fecal contamination,” said Dr. Jeannie Kenkare, the president of Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care.

Kenkare said recent weather events created a perfect storm for increased bacteria levels in the water.

“There’s been heavy rains, there's been water runoff. The temperatures have been really hot and that’s a really good breeding ground for bacteria,” Kenkare said.

Swimming in water with high bacteria levels could lead to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting.

Although increased bacteria sounds concerning, Kenkare said it shouldn’t stop people from going to the beach as waters are tested constantly to prevent any public health threats.

Rachel Santana, who visited the beach with her family, said despite it being closed for part of Wednesday, she still feels safe to swim.

“I feel safe if it’s open. I mean I know they’re going to make the right call,” Santana said.

Hailey Bonilla, who comes to the beach often, believes avoiding polluting the water at the beach could also help keep bacteria levels at bay.

“If you see any trash in the ocean just pick it up and throw it away,” Bonilla said.

Kenkare said it’s important for people to follow state guidelines and avoid using beaches when they are closed to protect their health and the health of others.

Alyshia Hercules is a Multi-Skilled Journalist for FOX61 News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Facebook or X.

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