E. coli
E. coli levels are measured in water at Lake Massapoag swimming beaches during the summer months, as an indicator of contamination with fecal material from warm-blooded animals, and as a primary indicator of water safety for swimming. Certain strains of E. coli can be hazardous to human health. Since the presence of E. coli indicates the presence of fecal material, it is also a sign that other disease-causing organisms, such as viruses and protozoans, may be present.
To help determine where E. coli in the lake may come from, inflow sites to the lake are tested monthly during June-September. These sites include the Sucker Brook inflow, and a site downstream from the town's capped landfill and a stream by Longmeadow Road, both of which feed Sucker Brook. This helps identify sites and sources that may need special remediation. A complete map of all inflow sites can be found here.
E. coli Sources
Sources of E. coli include septic seepage and feces from pets and wildlife, including ducks and geese. Sharon has upgraded its septic requirements, and several large abutters surrounding the lake have built new, state of the art septic systems over the years, including Sharon High School, which also serves the Memorial Beach facilities, and Salvation Army's Camp Wonderland. Please keep your septic systems in good working condition.
E. coli levels are measured in water at Lake Massapoag swimming beaches during the summer months, as an indicator of contamination with fecal material from warm-blooded animals, and as a primary indicator of water safety for swimming. Certain strains of E. coli can be hazardous to human health. Since the presence of E. coli indicates the presence of fecal material, it is also a sign that other disease-causing organisms, such as viruses and protozoans, may be present.
To help determine where E. coli in the lake may come from, inflow sites to the lake are tested monthly during June-September. These sites include the Sucker Brook inflow, and a site downstream from the town's capped landfill and a stream by Longmeadow Road, both of which feed Sucker Brook. This helps identify sites and sources that may need special remediation. A complete map of all inflow sites can be found here.
E. coli Sources
Sources of E. coli include septic seepage and feces from pets and wildlife, including ducks and geese. Sharon has upgraded its septic requirements, and several large abutters surrounding the lake have built new, state of the art septic systems over the years, including Sharon High School, which also serves the Memorial Beach facilities, and Salvation Army's Camp Wonderland. Please keep your septic systems in good working condition.