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

• River Park Marina-North Fork of the St. Lucie River
• Veterans Park-North Fork of the St. Lucie River

Swimming advisory remains in effect for the following river location:

• Westmoreland Tract Canoe Launch-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.

Samples were collected Monday December 11, 2017. Next sampling is scheduled for Tuesday December 26, 2017.

For North Fork sample results, visit the Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County website at:  www.stluciecountyhealth.com 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.