IDEM Reminds Beach-goers About Improved Advisory System

Up-to-date information offers easy access to monitoring data

NORTHERN INDIANA - As summer approaches and the weather warms, thoughts are turning toward Lake Michigan's beach season. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has an updated Web-based system to help keep families from being disappointed by beach closings.

IDEM’s online software system through the Indiana Lake Michigan Beaches program offers information about beach closures and beach sampling results for monitoring locations located along the coast of Lake Michigan. The free Web-based system allows the public to access information from their home computers to see if a particular beach has an alert. IDEM's Web address is www.idem.IN.gov/beaches. Water quality testing is scheduled to begin the week before Memorial Day, in time for the beach season.

“The Indiana Lake Michigan Beaches monitoring program provides an easy way for anyone to check the status of Lake Michigan beaches before the trip even begins," said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. "The online tool will help residents plan more effectively, and enjoy their time at the beach to its fullest."

Beach waters should be avoided when water samples analyzed for Escherichia Coli (E. coli) are found to contain abnormally high levels. "Lake Michigan beach advisories are issued when bacteria levels reach the point where it would be unhealthy for people to be in the water," said Michelle Caldwell, IDEM’s Beach Grant Program coordinator. "When the levels are high, people are at risk of becoming ill from contact with the water. Skin cuts or wounds, as well as ingesting the water, can increase the chances of illness."

"We’re continually working to educate and improve Lake Michigan water quality but E. coli can still be an issue," Commissioner Easterly said. "It's a good idea to check the Web site so that you can plan when and where you want to enjoy the beach with the family."