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Measurements indicating an elevated level of E. coli contamination in the waters of Westboro Beach have prompted no-swim advisories for the fourth consecutive day this week.
None of the city’s five other beaches have posted no-swim advisories as many times this year as Westboro Beach. It’s the 12th day the warning has been issued so far, while those seeking a cool dip have been welcomed back at Britannia, Mooney’s Bay, Petrie Island River, and Petrie Island East Bay.
For Melissa Overton, sunbathing at Westboro Beach, the no-swim advisory was tough to heed on such a beautiful day. She nevertheless let her kids splash in the water, despite the red flags posted nearby.
“It’s just annoying because the kids want to play, and it’s not like we have that many beaches to go to,” Overton said.
Neighbourhood storm water run-off
No-swim advisories are voluntary, and are issued by public health officials if tests indicate potentially dangerous levels of E. coli in the water. Exposure to the bacterium can cause infections and gastrointestinal illnesses.
Natasha Wilson, who works for the Ottawa Riverkeeper, said Westboro Beach was more affected by rainfall than any of the other city beaches due to its proximity to nearby neighbourhoods and the run-off from tainted stormwater.
She added that residents can take action to lower the levels of bacterium “by using rain barrels, being water-wise, making sure eaves troughs run to permeable areas and not the pavement.”
Residents have a role to play in the amount of bacteria that goes into the river.
The city is planning to update the sewer system so it doesn’t overflow during future downpours. Officials are also trying to educate residents about being more water-wise.