TRAVERSE CITY — Clinch Park recorded elevated E. coli levels in the latest round of weekly water sampling by the Grand Traverse County Health Department, while most other beaches in the area remained within state safety guidelines.
According to samples collected July 16 and reported July 17, Clinch Park measured 228 E. coli bacteria per 100 milliliters of water, but remained at a “Level 1” water quality rating, indicating the beach meets the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) standards for full body contact.
According to a July 18 update, confirmation samples collected at Sunset Park indicate that E. coli levels are trending upward.
While the beach still exceeds the EGLE water quality standards for E. coli, the advisory has been downgraded from Level 3 to Level 2. At this level, partial body contact is recommended, and full body contact should be avoided.
The remaining beaches — including Sayler Park, Acme Bayside Park, Bryant Park, East Bay Park, and West End Beach — all returned E. coli counts well below the 300 threshold that would trigger elevated concern. Sayler Park reported no detectable E. coli, while Acme and Bryant Parks recorded counts of 6 and 10, respectively.
Water quality levels are reported using a four-tier index. A “Level 1” rating indicates E. coli levels are safe for full-body contact, while “Level 3” and “Level 4” signify increased or high risk, with warnings to avoid contact with the water.
Beach samples are collected weekly, and E. coli levels can rise between testing periods, particularly following heavy rainfall or stormwater runoff.
The Grand Traverse County Health Department encourages the public to check water quality updates regularly. For more information, contact Environmental Health at 231-995-6051 or visit www.gtcountymi.gov.