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Jamesville Beach in Onondaga County is reopening for swimming after being closed due to algal blooms. On Wednesday (August 6), the Onondaga County Parks announced that the algal blooms have subsided, and the health department has deemed the water safe for swimming. The beach had been closed since August 1 due to the presence of algal blooms, which can turn water green and form thick surface scums. These blooms can release toxins that cause skin or eye irritation and gastrointestinal issues if ingested.
While Jamesville Beach is now open, Oneida Shores remains closed due to high levels of E. coli found in the water. According to the Onondaga County Parks department, a recent test at Oneida Shores revealed 488 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters, exceeding the safety threshold of 235 colonies per 100 milliliters. The health department continues to monitor water quality at both beaches, with updates available on the parks' website.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to check for the latest updates on beach conditions before planning a visit. Meanwhile, Green Lakes State Park remains the largest open beach in the county, providing an alternative for those seeking a place to swim.