The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is monitoring water quality at several lakes in Burlington County after recent flash flooding appears to have elevated bacterial levels, officials said Friday.
State testing showed higher-than-acceptable concentrations of fecal coliform bacteria at nearly two dozen designated swimming areas across the state, including Sylvan Lake Park. Park staff provided visitors with written and verbal advisories about potential water-quality concerns and warned that closures could follow if conditions worsen.
"If we have to close, we’ll let you know and give your money back,"
The DEP maintains an intensive weekly monitoring program for both freshwater and coastal bathing sites and posts results online. The agency said a spike in bacteria often follows heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff, or can result from wildlife droppings washing into recreational waters.
What residents should know
- Testing is ongoing; results are posted on the New Jersey DEP website when available.
- Health officials advise extra caution for children and older adults, who are more susceptible to illness from contaminated water.
- Park staff may close swim areas if conditions pose a public-health risk; refunds may be issued for canceled admission.
Visitors at Sylvan Lake expressed mixed reactions. Some said they trusted park management and would follow posted guidance; others said prior experience led them to be less worried about temporary advisories.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Contaminant | Fecal coliform bacteria |
| Area affected | Nearly two dozen monitored swimming sites (freshwater and coastal) |
| Primary cause | Stormwater runoff, recent flash floods, wildlife feces |
Health officials warn that exposure to water with elevated fecal coliform can lead to gastrointestinal illness and other infections, particularly in vulnerable populations. People who swim or wade in impacted waters should avoid ingesting water and should thoroughly wash with soap and clean water afterward.
The DEP said that laboratory results can lag behind sampling dates; in the recent instance, results from Monday’s sampling were not posted until Wednesday, and follow-up tests were posted when available. Local park authorities are coordinating with state officials as they evaluate whether any swim areas require temporary closures.
Residents and visitors can check current advisories and test results on the New Jersey DEP bathing water website before heading to lakes or beaches. Those who develop symptoms after swimming should contact a health care provider.
Reporting from Burlington County. — New Jersey Correspondent
