If you were planning a trip to Lake Mattoon Beach this weekend, you’ll want to hold off for now. As of this story’s posting, no official timetable has been given as to when it may reopen.
The beach has been temporarily closed after routine water testing revealed elevated levels of E. Coli in the water. This testing is conducted twice a week to ensure public safety. The two samples collected came back at 344.8 and 325.5 E. coli per 100 milliliters, both results were well above the threshold used to determine whether the water is safe for swimming or boating.
The beach will NOT reopen until two samples collected on the same day both come in below 235 E. Coli per 100 milliliters. Additional testing is expected to be conducted within the next few days, depending on weather conditions.
What we know: E. Coli levels are 33% higher than allowed however, during normal conditions in the Summer, these levels could fall within 16-24 hours. So while Friday might be out of the picture, there is a chance the beach could see itself open by Sunday.
