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

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. Swimming in the waters is not recommended due to an increased risk of illness at this time. 

Enteric bacteria inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals and their presence in recreational waters is an indication of fecal pollution.  The bacteria may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage.

The Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County will continue the advisory until results are satisfactory.  Samples were collected Monday October 26, 2020 and confirmation samples on Wednesday October 28, 2020. Sampling is scheduled for Monday November 9, 2020 and the results will be available Thursday November 12, 2020.

For results of St. Lucie County river samples, visit the Florida Department of Health in St. Lucie County website at https://stlucie.floridahealth.gov/ click on Environmental Health, then select North Fork Bacteria Testing, then select North Fork-St. Lucie River Sample Results.

For more information, please contact environmental health division at 772-873-4931.