Beaches Across Massachusetts Closed Due to Bacterial Exceedance and Algal Blooms
On July 12, 2026, a significant number of beaches in Massachusetts were closed due to various water quality issues. This decision was made to ensure public safety and prevent potential health risks associated with swimming in contaminated water.
The closures were primarily attributed to high bacteria levels and dangerous algal blooms, as confirmed by the state's interactive beaches dashboard. Here's a breakdown of the affected areas and the associated risks:
- Ashby: Damon Pond Beach - No specific reason listed.
- Ashland: Hopkinton Reservoir at Main Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Barnstable: Eugenia Fortes Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Beverly: Mingo Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Boston: Tenean - Bacterial exceedance.
- Braintree: Smith Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Brewster: Cliff Pond at DYS and Main Street - Harmful cyanobacteria bloom.
- Danvers: Sandy Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Dartmouth: Jones Town Beach at North and South; Moses Smith Creek - Bacterial exceedance.
- Eastham: Salt Pond Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Falmouth: Surf Drive Beach and Wood Neck River - Bacterial exceedance.
- Freetown: Freetown Town Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Holden: Eagle Lake Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Lynn: King's Beach at Eastern Avenue, Kimball Road, and Pierce Road - CSO/SSO event.
- Manchester: Magnolia East Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Nantucket: Sesachacha Pond - Harmful cyanobacteria bloom.
- Pembroke: Little Sandy Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Provincetown: 333 Commercial St., Johnson Street, Kendall Lane, Town Landing at Breakwater, and Snail Road - Bacterial exceedance.
- Quincy: Baker and Merrymount - Bacterial exceedance.
- Salem: Children's Island at Back and Wally, Ocean Avenue, and Willow Avenue - Bacterial exceedance.
- Saugus: Pearce Lake at Breakheart Reservation and Peckham Pond at Camp Nihan - Bacterial exceedance.
- Springfield: Camp Wilder at Right - Bacterial exceedance.
- Swampscott: King's - Bacterial exceedance.
- Swansea: Coles River Club, Leeside Beach, and Swansea Town Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Templeton: Beaman Pond at Campground and Day Use - Bacterial exceedance.
- Tisbury: Vineyard Harbor Motel - Bacterial exceedance.
- Townsend: Pearl Hill Pond Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
- Wareham: Briarwood Beach and Standish Shores - Bacterial exceedance.
- Winthrop: Donovan's Beach and Pico - Bacterial exceedance.
- Worcester: Lake Quinsigamond at Lake Park Beach - Bacterial exceedance.
Risks and Precautions
Swimming in water with elevated bacteria levels can lead to various health issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, sore throat, cough, skin rash, and more, according to the state health department. It is crucial to stay informed about beach closures and warnings. Here are some essential precautions to take:
- Check the weather forecast and avoid swimming after heavy rain.
- Be vigilant for signs of water pollution, such as discolored, fast-flowing, or strongly scented water.
- Do not swim near trash or litter floating in the water.
- Avoid swallowing the water and stick to designated 'swim beaches'.
Public Access and Responsibilities
While beaches may be closed, the public can still visit the areas and engage in non-water-contact activities. This includes playing sports, sunbathing, and collecting seashells. However, it is essential to take responsibility for reducing contamination and pollution:
- Clean up after pets.
- Avoid feeding birds to prevent them from congregating around beaches.
- Utilize public restrooms and dispose of trash properly.
- Do not enter the water when sick or feeling unwell.
- Change diapers and use swim diapers for diapered children.
- Avoid storm drains and refrain from using fertilizers and pesticides in yards.
These measures are crucial to maintaining the health of our beaches and the overall ecosystem.
In conclusion, the closure of these beaches serves as a reminder of the importance of water quality monitoring and public awareness. By taking these precautions and staying informed, we can ensure a safer and more enjoyable beach experience for everyone.
