Kelso beach, waterpark in Milton get thumbs up for swimming from health department

Despite eight other beaches in Burlington, Oakville and Acton being declared unsafe for swimming, both Kelso locations in Milton got the all-clear today.

Kelso Beach and Kelso Cover Waterpark, both located at 5234 Kelso Rd. in Milton, were cleared for swimming by the Halton Region Public Health Department following testing on Wednesday, Aug. 7.

During the summer months, Halton Region Public Health monitors water quality at selected recreational beaches in Halton Region. This is done as part of the Region’s commitment to protect the safety, health and well-being of all Halton residents.

Until the Labour Day weekend, Halton public beaches are routinely sampled every Wednesday. Since water quality can change day-to-day, or even hour-to-hour depending on many factors, beach goers cannot rely only on lab results.

Here are some factors beach goers need to take into consideration before swimming:

• Rain has a significant impact on water quality. Rain washes contaminants into streams, rivers and lakes, increasing the bacterial levels. We do not recommend swimming for 24-48 hours after heavy rainfalls.
• High winds can cause waves which stir up sand and silt, making the water cloudy. If the water appears cloudy (i.e. you can’t see your feet standing waist deep in the water), swimming is not recommended.
• The presence of seagulls, geese, ducks, and their droppings can have a significant impact on water quality, increasing the bacterial levels.
• Warmer water temperatures in shallow water are more favourable for bacterial growth and may increase bacterial levels.
• Heavy algae growth or accumulation
• Visible debris, metal, or sharp objects in the water or beach area

For more information about public beaches in Halton, visit the region’s website.