July 7, 2023

KITSAP COUNTY, WA

Advisories issued for Indianola, Pomeroy Park, and Pritchard Park swimming beaches due to high bacteria levels

Avoid contact with water at these beaches until further notice.

The Kitsap Public Health District issued no-contact advisories July 7 for the Indianola, Pomeroy Park, and Pritchard Park swimming beaches due to high levels of Enterococci bacteria in the water. We will monitor water quality at the beaches and will lift the advisories when bacteria return to a safer level.

Because there is an increased risk of getting sick, we recommend avoiding all contact with the water at these swimming beaches. This means no swimming, wading, or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get into your mouth, nose, or eyes. The risk of illness is greatest for young children, older adults, or anyone with a weakened immune system.

Advisory signs will be posted at the beaches. 

No illnesses have been reported to the Health District at this time. 

SWIMMING BEACH MONITORING

We monitor 30 fresh and saltwater swimming areas for bacteria during the summer months. We also check for toxic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and other safety concerns. If people or animals become sick after being in the water, or if you see an algae bloom or large numbers of dead fish, please report it online or by calling 360-728-2235. We will investigate and take action if necessary.

High levels of bacteria can be caused by wildlife and pets in the water, people swimming when they are sick with diarrhea, crowded swimming areas, infants swimming without swim diapers, or people entering the water without showering.   

SAMPLING RESULTS

The Health District issues advisories for marine (saltwater beaches) when water samples have an arithmetic mean value of over 104 Enterococci/100 mL. For samples taken July 5, results were: 

• Indianola (by pier) — 1,035/100 mL. 
• Pomeroy Park — 106.5/100 mL
• Pritchard Park — 304/100 mL

RESOURCES:

• Kitsap Public Health District water contact advisories
• Kitsap Public Health District swimming beach monitoring information
• Video: Monitoring for bacteria at swimming beaches
• Recreational water illnesses information
• Sign up to receive lake and swimming beach advisories by email or text

Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer
Kitsap Public Health District
360-728-2330 - office | (360) 728-2235 - main
pio@kitsappublichealth.org | kitsappublichealth.org