Southern Wisconsin Times

The City of Janesville Recreation Division has reopened Lions Beach, located at 1401 Palmer Dr., effective Friday, July 19. This decision follows water quality test results indicating that the facility is now safe for swimming.

City staff conduct weekly water quality sampling at the beach to monitor E. coli bacteria levels. During the week of July 18, a test revealed elevated bacteria levels of 1,011 CFU/100 mL in the swimming area, necessitating the temporary closure of the beach. Subsequent testing showed reduced bacteria levels of 225 CFU/100 mL, permitting the reopening.

According to water quality standards, any test result between 0 and 250 CFU/100 mL is deemed safe for swimming. Results between 250 and 1,000 CFU/100 mL are also considered safe but require public notice about elevated bacteria levels. Test results exceeding 1,000 CFU mandate the closure of the swimming area until further testing confirms safety.

Bacteria counts at Lions Beach fluctuate throughout the season due to various factors such as usage and environmental conditions like rainfall.

For further inquiries, contact the Recreation Division at (608) 755-3030.