Miami-Dade’s Health Department Issues Water Quality Alert at Three Beaches

Miami-Dade’s Department of Health has issued a water quality advisory for three beaches due to an excessive level of bacteria. The beaches in question are Oleta River State Park in North Miami Beach, Surfside – 93rd Street in Surfside, and Collins Park – 21st Street in Miami Beach. On July 3rd, tests conducted on these areas did not meet the recreational water quality criteria for enterococcus bacteria.

Enterococci bacteria are commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals and can indicate fecal pollution from sources such as stormwater run-off, wildlife, pets, and human sewage. Due to this risk, the health department advises against any water-related activities at these locations to reduce the chance of getting sick, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

John MacLauchlan is a digital content producer for CBS Miami who graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Communications. He joined the CBS Miami digital team in February 2007.