Langford Lake swimmers and paddlers can relax this BC Day long weekend. Island Health has removed the beach advisory for Langford Lake at Leigh Road. The lake is now safe for swimming and other water sports.
Earlier this week, Island Health and the Capital Regional District listed Langford Lake among several sites under beach advisory. These advisories warn the public when water is not safe for swimming due to contamination. In this case, water testing had shown elevated levels of E. coli.
On Monday, July 21, a sample taken from Langford Lake at Leigh Road showed 423 E. coli bacteria per 100 millilitres of water. Island Health issues a beach advisory when levels go over 400 per 100 millilitres. That means the water was considered unsafe for recreation at that time.
Island Health collected follow-up samples on July 28 and July 29. Both results came back with only five E. coli bacteria per 100 millilitres. Because the levels were well below the threshold, the advisory was lifted, just in time for the long weekend.
According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, E. coli bacteria are commonly found in the environment and in the human digestive system. Most types are not dangerous, and many people who are exposed may only experience mild stomach cramps or short-term diarrhea. However, some strains can produce harmful toxins. In rare cases, those infected may have more serious symptoms like bloody diarrhea.
While Langford Lake is now safe, other beaches in the region are still under advisories. The most popular one affected is the swimming dock at Banfield Park. Recent water testing showed signs of a sewage discharge, which caused increased levels of enterococci bacteria.
BC HealthLink explains that enterococci are bacteria found in the gut, mouth, and skin. They are generally harmless, but in some people, especially those with weaker immune systems, they can cause infections. These include sepsis, urinary tract infections, and in more severe cases, infections of the heart or brain.
Testing at Banfield Park is done regularly. The last time it had high enterococci levels was August of last year. Until the current contamination clears up, the water remains off-limits.
In addition to Banfield Park, several other locations also remain under advisory. These include Prior Lake, Thetis Lake, Elk Lake Hamsterly West, Elk Lake Eagles, Elk Lake Hamsterly East, Ross Bay, Beaver Lake, and Art Mann Park. The reasons range from high levels of enterococci to the presence of blue-green algae blooms.
People planning a beach trip are encouraged to check the Capital Regional District’s website for the latest advisories. Conditions can change quickly, so staying updated helps ensure safe outdoor fun.
Thanks to improved test results, Langford Lake is once again a safe place for swimming and enjoying nature. Visitors can now head out and make the most of the long weekend. The clear water, sandy shore, and warm weather offer a perfect setting for summer relaxation.
Enjoy your BC Day weekend at Langford Lake. Be mindful, stay safe, and help keep the area clean for everyone.
