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More than a dozen Michigan beaches have high bacteria counts. See the list

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. ches-have-high-bacteria-counts-see-the-list.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, August 24th 2025 at 1:25 GMT by Detroit Free Press
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Michigan’s Summer Coastlines Under Scrutiny: Bacteria Advisories Spread Across Key Beaches

In the wake of a spate of elevated bacterial counts at several popular summer destinations, the Michigan Department of Health and Environment (MDHE) has issued advisories for dozens of beaches along the state’s Great Lakes shores. The most pressing concern is the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in water that is routinely used for recreation. As rainfall patterns shift and infrastructure ages, the health of Michigan’s shoreline water is becoming a national conversation about public safety, environmental stewardship, and the responsibilities of local governments and state agencies.

1. The Scope of the Advisories

According to the MDHE’s latest data, at least 27 Michigan beaches have received E. coli advisories for the current season. The advisories range from “Moderate” to “High,” depending on bacterial levels and associated risk. The most frequently mentioned sites include:

The advisories are published in real time on the MDHE website and are also disseminated through local news outlets, community radio, and the state’s official social‑media channels. A clear message accompanies each advisory: swimmers should avoid contact with the water, especially if they have open wounds, and individuals with compromised immune systems should refrain from swimming entirely.

2. What the Data Tell Us

MDHE’s monitoring program involves testing surface water at strategic points across the shoreline. Samples are analyzed for fecal indicator bacteria, primarily E. coli and Enterococcus species, which signal contamination from human or animal waste. The laboratory reports use a “Bacteria Log Index” (BLI) that helps classify risk levels. For instance:

• BLI 0–1: Low risk (no advisory)
• BLI 2–3: Moderate risk (advisory issued)
• BLI 4–5: High risk (advisory and caution for vulnerable populations)

On the most recent data releases, several beaches exhibited BLIs above 4, prompting “High” advisories. The data also indicated that E. coli concentrations at Grand Haven reached 1,200 colony forming units (CFU) per 100 ml—a level that would ordinarily trigger an immediate advisory under the U.S. EPA’s “Community Water System” guidelines.

In addition to routine sampling, MDHE has recently introduced automated monitoring stations at key points, including a water intake near Grand Traverse Bay. These sensors provide near‑real‑time data, allowing quicker responses to bacterial surges.

3. Why Are the Bacteria Levels Rising?

The article cites a confluence of factors that explain the spike in bacterial contamination.

a. Heavy Rainfall and Storm Events

Michigan’s summer 2025 weather pattern has been unusually wet, with a 30‑day rainfall total exceeding 8 inches in several regions. Excessive precipitation saturates soils and forces runoff overland into storm drains and waterways. The result: a surge in bacterial loads from untreated wastewater and septic system leaks.

b. Aging Sewage Infrastructure

Many Michigan coastal towns were built in the early 20th century, and their sewer systems are reaching the end of their operational lifespan. For example, the city of Grand Haven’s main sewer line was installed in 1927. “Sewer infrastructure failure is a major source of contamination during heavy rain events,” explains Dr. Susan Ramirez, an environmental engineer with the University of Michigan’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. “When the pipes are cracked or broken, untreated sewage can leak directly into the waterway.”

c. Agricultural Runoff

Several of the affected beaches lie near agricultural zones. Runoff from cattle farms, fertilizer use, and manure storage can introduce large amounts of bacteria into nearby lakes and rivers. The MDHE has partnered with the Michigan State University Extension Service to conduct nutrient‑loading studies, which found that nitrate and phosphorous concentrations—both linked to bacterial proliferation—have risen by 15% in recent years.

d. Recreational Use

High numbers of visitors to Michigan’s beaches increase the probability of human and pet waste entering the water. Despite rigorous cleaning protocols at most public beaches, occasional lapses—especially during large events like the Grand Rapids Summer Festival—can elevate bacterial counts.

4. Official Statements and Community Response

MDHE Director, Dr. Angela Kim, issued a statement emphasizing the agency’s commitment to public safety. “Our data shows a clear trend of increased bacterial presence in some of our most visited beaches,” she said. “We are working closely with local governments, environmental groups, and the private sector to address the root causes and to keep our residents and visitors safe.”

Local officials have responded with a range of initiatives. Grand Haven City Council approved a $1.2 million grant to replace the aging sewer system in a targeted area, with the first phase of construction slated for September. The town of Traverse City has introduced “Beach Health Patrols” staffed by volunteers and health workers to monitor water quality and provide immediate advisories when bacterial levels rise.

Community members have also taken action. A volunteer group in Saugatuck has organized a “Clean‑Up‑The‑Beach” campaign, gathering residents to remove debris and to monitor dog waste. “We know that small actions can make a difference,” said volunteer coordinator Mike Hayes. “We’re seeing a reduction in fecal matter on the sand, and we hope that helps the bacteria counts.”

5. What You Can Do As a Swimmer

While MDHE continues to manage the situation, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce risk.

1. Check the MDHE Beach Advisory List before heading out. Many local tourism sites also post real‑time advisories on their websites.

2. Avoid swimming if you have open cuts, wounds, or a compromised immune system. Even “moderate” advisories warrant caution for vulnerable populations.

3. Dispose of pet waste properly. Pet owners should use designated waste bags and dispose of them in trash receptacles. The MDHE recommends that dogs not be allowed on beaches where advisories are in effect.

4. Practice good hygiene. Shower before and after swimming and wash hands thoroughly.

5. Report suspicious contamination. If you notice foul odors, floating debris, or other signs of contamination, contact MDHE or local law enforcement immediately.

6. Long‑Term Solutions

The advisories have highlighted a pressing need for systemic improvements. The MDHE has outlined a multi‑phase plan that includes:

• Infrastructure upgrades: Replacing or reinforcing aging sewer lines and stormwater systems.
• Riparian restoration: Planting vegetation buffers along shorelines to reduce runoff.
• Public education: Launching a statewide awareness campaign on beach safety and sanitation.
• Data sharing: Expanding collaboration with universities, NGOs, and private companies to monitor water quality using both laboratory and citizen science methods.

An MDHE spokesperson said that the agency is also in the process of negotiating a “Statewide Shoreline Resilience Fund” that would provide additional resources for communities impacted by climate‑related events.

7. Conclusion

Michigan’s beaches have long been a hallmark of the state’s natural heritage and a popular destination for residents and tourists alike. The recent bacteria advisories serve as a stark reminder that protecting these resources is an ongoing, collaborative effort. While the immediate health risk is being managed through advisories, the long‑term health of the shoreline depends on decisive action to upgrade infrastructure, manage runoff, and involve communities in stewardship. For those looking to enjoy Michigan’s crystal‑clear waters, staying informed and following public health guidance remains the best strategy. As the state moves forward, the lessons learned from this season could shape a safer, more resilient shoreline for generations to come.