Kelowna lifts swimming advisory for Rotary Beach

The City of Kelowna has lifted the swimming advisory for Rotary Beach following consultations with Interior Health. The advisory was originally implemented earlier this month after bacterial testing revealed E. coli levels exceeding acceptable limits.

Recent testing indicates that the water quality at Rotary Beach now consistently meets the Canadian Recreational Water Quality Guidelines. The city noted that water quality can fluctuate due to environmental factors, lake currents, plant debris, and animal waste, often worsening in summer due to warm temperatures and sediment disturbance.

To maintain water quality, officials are advising the public to avoid feeding waterfowl, disposing of waste properly, using bathroom facilities for diaper changes, and ensuring boat sewage is handled at onshore sanitary facilities. Additionally, swimmers are urged to wash hands thoroughly and refrain from swimming if they are experiencing diarrhea.