By BDN staff

As of Friday, all but one of Burlington’s recreational swimming areas managed by Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront (BPRW) are closed to swimming due to elevated levels of Cyanobacteria, commonly known as Blue-green Algae (BGA).

The closed municipal beaches and access points, updated as of July 11, include:

• Leddy Beach North (updated 7:38 AM)
• Leddy Beach South (updated 7:38 AM)
• North Beach North (updated 7:39 AM)
• North Beach South (updated 7:39 AM)
• Texaco Beach (updated 7:39 AM)
• Blanchard Beach North (updated 9:32 AM)
• Blanchard Beach South (updated 9:32 AM)
• Oakledge Cove (updated 7:40 AM)
• Blodgett Water Access Point (last updated 2:14 PM on July 10, 2025)

A Category 3 BGA level signifies that the area has exceeded the criteria making it unsuitable for swimming, and beaches are closed until the bloom dissipates and the water is deemed safe for recreation. In situations with Category 2 blooms, advisory/warning signs are used, and children and pets, who are most vulnerable, are advised to stay out. The current Category 3 status indicates an even higher risk.

Currently, North Shore Natural Area remains open, with its status last updated on July 10, at 12:47 PM.

BPRW actively monitors its swimming areas for both E-coli and Cyanobacteria (Blue-green Algae). E-coli is considered an “indicator” bacteria, meaning its presence can suggest the possible presence of other sickness-causing organisms, even if it doesn’t cause sickness itself. E-coli sampling is conducted twice a week, or as needed if high or errant test results are received.

Municipal Beaches (Oakledge Cove, Blanchard, Texaco, North & Leddy) are monitored daily for Cyanobacteria by seasonal and full-time staff during Beach Season (Memorial Day – Labor Day), and undergo twice-a-week E. Coli testing. Their conditions are updated daily.

Access Areas (Blodgett & North Shore) are monitored periodically throughout the week for cyanobacteria by staff, but not daily, and are not tested for E.Coli. Residents and visitors are advised to check the latest updates from BPRW before planning any recreational activities in the water.