Meydenbauer Beach Park reopens after testing for fecal bacteria | UPDATE

Published 8:52 pm Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Bellevue reopened swimming at Meydenbauer Beach Park after it was temporarily closed due to high fecal bacteria levels in the water, Tuesday night.

As a precaution, the city regular monitors Lake Washington. All other Bellevue beaches have tested within a normal range. Meydenbauer has since tested at normal levels. The source of bacteria remains unknown, but a sewer line has been checked and no leaks have been detected. The city will continue to test and monitor the water.

Swimming in locations with high levels of bacteria presents a health risk, though fecal bacteria does not always belong to humans. Geese, gulls and ducks are also sources of the pollution. High levels could also be an indicator of a failing septic system, sewage overflows or the inadequate treatment of municipal waste.

For more information about the monitoring process and health standards, visit the county’s website.