[LIFTED] High E. Coli Advisory for Harbor Towne Park Beach

June 11, 2025

High E. Coli Temporary Beach Closure for Harbor Towne Park Beach

Muskegon County has issued a high E. coli advisory for Harbor Towne Park after recent water quality testing showed bacteria levels exceeding safe limits for swimming.

Update 06/16/25:

The high E. coli advisory for Harbor Towne Park Beach has been lifted. Water testing now shows bacteria levels within safe limits, and the beach is open again for swimming and recreation.

Update 06/12/25:
A temporary advisory recommended for the following beach has been elevated to a temporary beach closure recommendation, as water conditions may be unsafe for swimmers and other users due to increased E. coli bacteria levels in the water. More information on this recommended closure can be found here: Home – MiEnviro Portal

Harbor Towne Park Beach

For more information regarding the advisory, visit www.egle.state.mi.us/beach.
A link is also available on the Public Health – Muskegon County website.

📊 View the latest water quality results here:
Harbor Towne Park Beach Monitoring Results

What This Means

A beach advisory or closure is issued when E. coli levels exceed state safety standards—either through a high single-day reading or a 30-day average. Muskegon County health officials will continue to monitor the water and will lift the advisory once bacteria levels return to safe conditions.

While swimming is not advised during this closure, other beach activities may still be allowed.

What is E. coli?

Escherichia coli (E. coli) are naturally occurring bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, their presence can indicate contamination by disease-causing organisms.

Where Does It Come From?

Common sources of E. coli in surface water include:

Stormwater runoff
Animal waste (domestic or wild)
Failing septic systems
Sewer overflows
Agricultural runoff

Understanding Water Safety

Bacteria doesn’t spread uniformly across a lake. Two beaches on the same lake can have completely different bacteria levels depending on shoreline conditions.
E. coli levels often decrease naturally within 48 hours due to sunlight, wind, and wave action.
Swimming farther from shore is typically safer than nearshore areas where contamination tends to concentrate.
Private waterfront property owners are encouraged to periodically test water where they swim, as nearby public beach results may not reflect local conditions.

Stay informed and help keep our waters safe. We’ll share updates as soon as conditions change.