Swimming advisory issued for beach on St. Joseph Island

Algoma Public Health is warning residents and visitors to avoid swimming at Big Point Park after lab results from a water sample detected high levels of bacteria

NEWS RELEASE ALGOMA PUBLIC HEALTH ************************* Algoma Public Health has issued a swimming advisory for Big Point Park located on St. Joseph Island, Ont. Water samples are taken from Big Point Park every week. The test results of samples taken on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, contained high levels of bacteria.

It is unsafe to swim at beaches with increased levels of bacteria. When sample results return to safe levels, the advisory will be removed. Weather may affect water quality.

Water may contain high levels of bacteria for up to 48 hours following heavy rainfall, high winds, or an increased number of birds. Swimming advisories do not close the beach or stop people from swimming. They let swimmers know about the water conditions the day the sample was taken.

Swimming in water with high levels of bacteria can cause skin, eye, nose, and throat infections, as well as stomach illness if water is swallowed. To reduce your risk: - Avoid swallowing beach water - Towel off after a swim, and - Shower once at home Visit our website to view a map of the beaches sampled and current warnings or postings. *************************