Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County is issuing a swimming advisory for the following river locations:

• Westmoreland Tract Canoe Launch-North Fork of the St. Lucie River
• River Park Marina-North Fork of the St. Lucie River

The sample results found higher than normal levels of enteric bacteria. Potential health risks for those who ingest or come in contact with the water include upset stomach, diarrhea, eye irritation and skin rashes.Enteric bacteria inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals and their presence in recreational waters is an indication of fecal pollution.

Their presence may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage.

 The department has lifted the swimming advisory for: 

• South Beach Causeway
• Veterans Park-North Fork of the St. Lucie River

These sample results are in the acceptable range for enteric bacteria. 

Samples were collected Monday October 16, 2017. Next sampling is scheduled for Monday October 30, 2017.

For results of all St. Lucie County beaches sampled, visit the Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County website at:  www.stluciecountyhealth.com click on Environmental Health, then select Healthy Beaches Program, then select Florida Healthy Beaches website. For river results click on North Fork Bacteria Testing, then click North Fork-St. Lucie River Sample Results.

For more information, please contact St. Lucie’s Environmental Health Division at 772-873-4931.