Wood County Beach Update: What’s Open and What’s Closed

Dexter & North Wood County Park Beaches Open, South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach Closed (UPDATE: NOW OPEN)

WOOD COUNTY, WI (OnFocus) – The Wood County Health Department has issued an update on the status of local beaches, providing important information on water safety and quality for residents and visitors.

Open Beaches: Dexter & North Wood County Park

The beaches at Dexter and North Wood County Park are currently open for swimming. Recent water samples collected from these beaches have shown that the water is safe for public use. However, swimmers are advised to exercise caution, especially following heavy rain events, as these can temporarily impact water quality. It is recommended to avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours after significant rainfall to ensure safety.

The Wood County Health Department will continue to monitor and test the water quality at all county beaches through the end of August. For any inquiries regarding water quality testing, individuals can contact the Wood County Health Department at 715-421-8911 or 715-387-8646, or the Wood County Parks and Forestry Department at 715-421-8422.

Closed Beach: South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach

Unfortunately, the South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach is currently closed due to elevated counts of Escherichia coli (E. coli). An initial water sample collected on June 11, 2024, revealed high levels of E. coli, prompting the closure. The most recent sample showed an E. coli count of 1119.9 Most Probable Number (MPN), significantly exceeding the safety threshold of 235 MPN.

The presence of E. coli in water indicates possible contamination from human or animal waste, posing potential health risks such as gastrointestinal illnesses. Symptoms of these waterborne illnesses include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention promptly.

Wood County Environmental Health staff are actively collecting and testing water samples from the South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach and will reopen the beach once the water quality meets safety standards. Updates on the status of the beach will be provided as new test results become available.

For information on the reopening of South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach or any water quality concerns, please contact the Wood County Health Department at 715-421-8911 or 715-387-8646, or the Wood County Parks and Forestry Department at 715-421-8422.

UPDATE JUNE 13:

South Wood County Park Red Sand Beach is open for swimming. The water sample collected from the beach has indicated that the beach water was safe at the time of collection. Please keep in mind that heavy rain can affect water quality and it is advisable to avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours following heavy rain events. 

The Wood County Health Department will continue to test the water quality of Wood County beaches through the end of August. If you have questions regarding water quality testing at Wood County beaches, you may call the Wood County Health Department at 715-421-8911 or 715-387-8646, or the Wood County Parks and Forestry Department at 715-421-8422. 

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