AURORA, Colo. — The designated swim area at Cherry Creek State Park is back open after a temporary closure due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).
The beach was closed last week following the elevated levels which were found during required routine water quality tests performed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
The beach area and other water-related activities such as boating, waterskiing, paddleboarding and fishing remained open to the public. Only the swim area was closed, CPW said.
"These closures are not a common occurrence, but can be caused by fecal waste from wildlife, run-off from urban areas, or excessive run-off from rain which we have had a lot of lately,” said Cherry Creek State Park Manager Jason Trujillo.
Water quality testing in natural swimming areas is mandated by the CDPHE and the Colorado Board of Health. It is required to report water quality data to the CDPHE on a regular basis during the swimming season to ensure public health and safety.
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