WINNEBAGO COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) – Two public beaches in Winnebago County have been closed due to high levels of E. coli bacteria, according to a release from Winnebago County Public Health.
The affected locations are:
- Lake Butte des Mortes Boat Landing, 5316 Leonard Point Road, Omro
- Winneconne Park Beach, 498 Parkway Drive, Winneconne
Recent water testing showed E. coli concentrations above 1,000 MPN/100 mL, a threshold that indicates a serious risk of illness for swimmers. Health officials say swimming is not recommended at either site until further notice.
Beach closures are implemented when bacteria levels exceed safe limits set by health authorities, typically after heavy rain or runoff, which can introduce contaminants into public waterways.
Officials will continue to monitor water quality and lift closures once levels return to safe conditions. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid contact with the water in the meantime.
For statewide updates on beach advisories and closures, the public is encouraged to visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Beach Health Map at: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/beachhealth/healthmap.aspx
