Nine Wellington County beaches declared safe for summer swimming

Public Health officials have confirmed that nine local beaches passed water quality tests on June 1. The results show safe swimming conditions across several popular spots in Wellington County and surrounding areas. Testing follows strict guidelines to ensure public safety in recreational waters. All nine beaches met the required standards for E. coli bacteria levels. Water is deemed unsafe if a single sample contains 400 or more E. coli per 100 millilitres, or if the average of five samples reaches 200 or more. None of the tested locations exceeded these limits.

The safe beaches include Conestogo Lake Beach in Mapleton (6580 Wellington County Road 11), Guelph Lake Beach and Guelph Lake Island Beach (both at 7743 Conservation Road), Shade’s Mills Beach in Cambridge (450 Avenue Road), and Rockwood Conservation Area Beach (161 Fall Street South). Belwood Quarry Beach in Fergus (8282 Wellington County Road 18), the beach in Waterloo (625 Westmount Road North), and Pinehurst Lake Beach in Ayr (468 Pinehurst Road) also received clearance. Despite the positive results, officials still advise caution in certain conditions. Swimming is not recommended during rain, when water appears wavy or cloudy, or if there is a high presence of birds. A two-day waiting period is also advised after heavy storms to allow water quality to stabilise.

The latest test results provide reassurance for swimmers visiting these nine beaches. Public Health will continue monitoring water quality throughout the summer. Updates on swimming safety will be shared as conditions change.