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More than 30 Mass. beaches closed Thursday

Massachusetts Beach Closures: Over 30 Beaches Shut Down Amid Water Quality Concerns on July 24

As summer heats up in Massachusetts, beachgoers are facing a wave of disappointments with more than 30 beaches across the state closed to swimming as of Thursday, July 24. The closures, announced by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), stem primarily from elevated levels of harmful bacteria in the water, posing potential health risks to swimmers. This widespread issue highlights ongoing challenges with water quality in the Bay State, where heavy rainfall, urban runoff, and other environmental factors can quickly contaminate coastal and inland waters. For families planning a day at the shore or tourists flocking to iconic spots like Cape Cod or the North Shore, these closures serve as a stark reminder to check updates before heading out.

The DPH monitors water quality at hundreds of public beaches throughout the state, conducting regular tests for bacteria such as enterococci and E. coli. These microorganisms often indicate the presence of fecal contamination from sources like sewage overflows, stormwater runoff, animal waste, or even malfunctioning septic systems. When levels exceed safe thresholds—typically set by federal guidelines under the BEACH Act—beaches are closed to protect public health. Symptoms of exposure can range from mild gastrointestinal issues to more severe infections, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. In some cases, closures are also due to harmful algal blooms, which can produce toxins leading to skin irritation or respiratory problems.

This week's closures affect a diverse array of locations, from bustling urban beaches to serene freshwater spots. On the South Shore, several popular destinations have been hit hard. For instance, Wollaston Beach in Quincy remains off-limits due to persistent bacterial exceedances, a recurring problem in areas near densely populated neighborhoods. Similarly, Nantasket Beach in Hull, known for its wide sands and family-friendly vibe, is closed, disrupting plans for many locals who rely on it as a summer staple. Moving to Cape Cod, the iconic region sees multiple closures, including Corporation Beach in Dennis and Sea Gull Beach in Yarmouth, both flagged for high enterococci levels following recent storms that likely washed pollutants into the ocean.

Inland and freshwater beaches aren't spared either. Lake Quinsigamond in Worcester, a hub for boating and swimming, has sections closed due to cyanobacteria blooms, those pesky blue-green algae that thrive in warm, nutrient-rich waters. This type of closure is increasingly common as climate change contributes to warmer temperatures and more frequent algal outbreaks. Over on the North Shore, beaches like Nahant Beach in Nahant and Revere Beach in Revere are shuttered, with the latter's urban setting making it particularly susceptible to runoff from nearby highways and developments. Revere Beach, America's oldest public beach, draws crowds for its boardwalk and events, so its closure is a significant blow to the local economy.

The list extends further: In Plymouth County, Duxbury Beach is closed, as is Green Harbor Beach in Marshfield. Bristol County's Horseneck Beach in Westport joins the roster, while in Barnstable County, additional spots like Cockle Cove Beach in Chatham and Nauset Beach in Orleans are affected. Essex County reports closures at Black Rock Beach in Nahant and Dane Street Beach in Beverly. Even Franklin County's Lake Wyola in Shutesbury is impacted by bacterial issues. Hampden County's spots, such as Pontoosuc Lake in Pittsfield, face similar fates. The closures aren't limited to these; others include Miacomet Beach on Nantucket, Menauhant Beach in Falmouth, and several in the Berkshires like Otis Reservoir in Otis.

Experts point to recent weather patterns as a key culprit. Massachusetts has experienced a mix of heavy rains and hot spells this July, creating ideal conditions for bacterial proliferation. Rainstorms can overwhelm stormwater systems, flushing contaminants directly into waterways. Additionally, wildlife activity, such as bird droppings or pet waste left on shores, exacerbates the problem. The DPH emphasizes that these closures are temporary and beaches are retested frequently—often daily or weekly—until water quality improves. Many could reopen by the weekend if tests show safe levels, but beachgoers are urged to visit the DPH's interactive beach water quality dashboard for real-time updates.

Beyond the immediate inconveniences, these closures raise broader concerns about environmental health in Massachusetts. The state has invested in infrastructure improvements, like upgrading wastewater treatment plants and implementing green stormwater solutions, but challenges persist. Advocacy groups like the Massachusetts Rivers Alliance and the Surfrider Foundation have long called for stronger regulations on pollution sources, including agricultural runoff and industrial discharges. Climate change adds another layer, with rising sea levels and warmer waters potentially increasing the frequency of such events. In fact, data from previous years shows a trend: In 2023, Massachusetts saw over 1,000 beach closure days cumulatively, a figure that environmentalists fear could rise without proactive measures.

For those affected, alternatives abound. Open beaches like Crane Beach in Ipswich or Singing Beach in Manchester-by-the-Sea offer safe havens, provided visitors follow guidelines such as avoiding swimming after heavy rains and showering after dips. The DPH also recommends checking for posted signs at beach entrances and heeding lifeguard advice. Families can pivot to non-swimming activities, like picnicking, hiking nearby trails, or exploring tide pools—ensuring a fun day out without the risks.

Local businesses feel the pinch too. Beachside vendors, ice cream shops, and rental outfits in closed areas report dips in foot traffic, underscoring the economic ripple effects. Tourism officials in places like Cape Cod are promoting indoor attractions or less-affected spots to mitigate losses. "It's frustrating, but safety comes first," said a spokesperson for the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce. "We're encouraging visitors to explore our lighthouses, museums, and biking paths instead."

As we delve deeper into the science behind these closures, it's worth noting how testing works. Water samples are collected from knee-deep areas, analyzed in labs for bacterial counts. If enterococci exceed 104 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters in marine waters, or if E. coli hits 235 in freshwater, closures kick in. These standards, aligned with EPA recommendations, aim to keep illness rates low. Historical data reveals patterns: Urban beaches like those in Boston Harbor often close more frequently due to proximity to city infrastructure, while rural ones might face issues from agricultural nutrients fostering algae.

Preventive steps are crucial. Residents can help by properly disposing of pet waste, avoiding feeding birds at beaches, and supporting clean water initiatives. Municipalities are stepping up with beach raking to remove debris and educational campaigns on water conservation. Looking ahead, innovations like real-time water quality sensors—already piloted in some areas—could provide instant alerts via apps, empowering beachgoers with data at their fingertips.

In summary, while these 30-plus closures on July 24 disrupt summer plans, they underscore the importance of vigilance in protecting public health and our precious coastal resources. As Massachusetts navigates these challenges, staying informed and adaptable ensures that the joys of beach days remain accessible. For the latest list, which includes specifics like Ashby Reservoir in Ashby, Bassing Beach in Bourne, and many more, consult the DPH website. Remember, a closed beach today could mean a safer swim tomorrow.

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Read the Full MassLive Article at:
[ https://www.masslive.com/entertainment/2025/07/mass-beach-closures-more-than-30-beaches-closed-thursday-july-24.html ]