Unsafe Due To Elevated Bacteria Levels: Bender Beach Closed

OAK CREEK, WI — The Oak Creek Health Department is warning against swimming in Lake Michigan waters at Bender Beach. Elevated levels of bacteria have been detected by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, making the spot unsafe for swimming.

An E. coli outbreak was detected in the water. Testing by the DNR found approximately 2755 units of bacteria per 100 milliliters of water. E. Coli is a common bacteria. Some forms are harmless, but others can cause severe issues from a toxin that it releases, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Dangerous variants of the bacteria are commonly found in fecal matter. Untreated water can contain high amounts of E. coli. Runoff from farms and sewer overflows can cause elevated levels of the bacteria in waterways.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources regularly tests beaches and waterways around the state to ensure safe levels of bacteria. Test results, including those for Bender beach, are available online.

The health department said that it will update the public when waters become safe to swim in again.