Michigan Beaches Closed Due to High Bacteria Levels Ahead of Fourth of July

News Summary

As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, several beaches in Michigan are closed or under advisory due to elevated E. coli levels. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has reported three closures and three advisories related to high bacteria counts in water. Beachgoers are cautioned to remain vigilant about safety as the holiday approaches. Despite dry weather forecasts for the weekend, EGLE continues to monitor water quality across public beaches to ensure safety for families and visitors.

Michigan – Several beaches across Michigan are closed or under advisory as high bacteria levels jeopardize swimming safety in the lead-up to the Fourth of July weekend. As holiday festivities approach, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is cautioning beachgoers about the current water conditions.

Currently, three beaches are closed, and an additional three are under advisory due to elevated bacteria levels, primarily E. coli. The closures and advisories are part of EGLE’s ongoing monitoring efforts, which include regular water sampling to ensure public safety at the state’s beaches.

Closed Beaches

• Camp Ohiyesa – North: Located in Oakland County on Fish Lake, this beach has been closed since July 3 due to high bacteria levels. The source of pollution remains unknown, marking its first closure of 2025.
• County Club: This beach, also in Oakland County on Orchard Lake, has been closed since July 1. The closure is attributed to pollution from stormwater runoff, and it represents the beach’s first closure or advisory in 2025.
• Eagle Lake Road: Situated in Oakland County on Eagle Lake, this beach has been closed since July 2 due to high bacteria levels. Like Camp Ohiyesa, the pollution source is unknown, but this beach has seen a total of three closures or advisories this year.

Beaches Under Advisory

In addition to the closures, three beaches are currently under advisory:

• Elm Point Beach: Located in Charlevoix County on the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix, this beach has been under advisory since July 1 due to high bacteria levels, with the pollution source unknown. This represents its first advisory of 2025.
• St. Clair Shores Memorial Park Beach: This beach is located in Macomb County on Lake St. Clair and has been under advisory since June 24. It has been under advisory for the second time in 2025, with an unknown pollution source.
• Sunset Park: Located in Grand Traverse County on Grand Traverse Bay, Sunset Park has been under advisory since June 26 due to high bacteria levels. The source of pollution is also unknown, marking its first advisory of the year.

Understanding Water Safety Standards

Swimming safety at public beaches is determined by assessing E. coli counts, which must be below 300 per 100 milliliters. Beaches that exceed this standard are subject to closures or advisories to protect public health.

Resources for the Public

EGLE has made it easier for residents and visitors to stay informed about water quality and beach conditions. An online dashboard is available, showcasing water quality sampling results and providing updates on beach advisories and closures for over 1,800 public beaches across Michigan.

Weather Outlook for the Holiday Weekend

The forecast for the Fourth of July weekend is positive, with predictions of dry weather and temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s, creating optimal conditions for outdoor activities. However, beachgoers should remain attentive to advisories and closures to ensure their safety while enjoying the festivities.

Conclusion

As families and individuals plan their holiday activities, being aware of these beach conditions will help them make informed decisions on where to swim. EGLE continues to monitor the water quality to maintain safe and enjoyable public spaces throughout the summer.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WZZM13
• Detroit Free Press
• WLIX
• MLive
• USA Today
• Wikipedia: Water Quality
• Google Search: Michigan Beach Closures
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Beach Safety
• Google News: Michigan Beach Advisories