July 20, 2005

• On July 18, elevated levels of E. coli bacteria were observed at eight beaches in the south basin of Lake Winnipeg. Advisories have been previously issued for all of these beaches: Gull Harbour, Hnasau, Spruce Sands, Gimli, Winnipeg Beach, Matlock, Albert Beach and Hillside Beach. These advisory signs will remain in place for the remainder of the beach season.
• Both Gimli and Matlock beaches were found to have the highest levels that have been recorded at these beaches: 6,010 and 3,140 E. coli / 100 mL respectively. Water samples collected at Gimli Beach on July 19 indicated that levels had decreased to 832 E. coli / 100 mL. Re-sampling is being done for all other beaches that exceeded the guideline value of 200 E. coli / 100 mL.
• The recent high counts in the south basin of the lake are believed to have occurred as a result of weather conditions (sustained strong winds and rain) on July 17 and 18 that led to bacteria being washed out of beach sand and into the water. Lake levels (as measured at Gimli Beach) rose approximately 0.6 metres within 36 hours from July 17 to 18.
• Streams and drains in the Interlake region that flow into Lake Winnipeg were also sampled on July 18. E. coli densities ranged from 10 to 50 E. coli / 100 mL and are therefore likely not a contributing factor to elevated bacteria densities found at these beaches.
• Although the majority of swimmers will not become ill, the possibility of illness increases with rising counts. The most common health risks that can occur are gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea, upper respiratory tract, eye, ear, nose or throat infections and skin ailments.
• Monitoring of the lake is ongoing. At this time, members of the public who swim or have recreational contact with lake water at posted beaches are advised to avoid swallowing lake water when playing or swimming, wash your hands before handling food, stay away from the water if you are experiencing digestive or intestinal problems and reduce exposure to the lake water if water levels are high and the wind is coming from the north.
• Similar to previous years, weather and lake level information appear to be good predictors of bacteria counts. When strong winds from the north cause short-term increases in water levels, bacteria counts tend to be higher. As water levels drop and favourable weather returns (sunny and calm winds), bacteria counts typically fall quickly, usually within
  24 hours, to below guideline thresholds.
• Manitoba Water Stewardship will continue to monitor the situation with frequent testing. Lab results are available on the Water Stewardship website: http://www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/index.html.
• Manitobans can help prevent increased levels of bacteria by:

        -  not leaving litter on the beach,

        -  not discarding food on the beach,

        - changing diapered children often and disposing of the diaper properly, and

-  not allowing pets on the beach.

• Each year, major beaches are monitored. Included are the major beaches on Lake Winnipeg, in the Whiteshell Provincial Park and in the south, central and western regions.
• Further information on the clean beach program in Manitoba can be obtained through a new service being offered by Health Links-Info Santé, which can be accessed by calling 788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.

 

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