2 State Swimming Areas Closed After Testing Reveals Bacteria

Two state swimming areas are shut down after testing high for bacteria, according to the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

The swimming areas at Gardner Lake State Park in Salem and Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield are both closed after routine testing revealed the presence of certain indicator bacteria.

Burr Pond State Park in Torrington, which had been closed, came back with improved test results and has reopened.

The bacteria does not necessarily cause disease, but it is used as an indicator to test for possible contamination in bodies of water.

DEEP will retest both areas on July 13 to see if they can be safely reopened. DEEP tests water quality at state swimming areas routinely during the season.

The agency only tests state bodies of water. Testing for local swimming areas is the responsibility of the respective municipalities.

Contact Us