Routine weekly water testing revealed high levels of fecal coliform bacteria in Lake Washington at Houghton Beach in Kirkland, leading City officials to warn against people and pets entering into the water. Advisory signs warning about contaminated water have been posted at the beach, which is located at 5811 Lake Washington Blvd NE.

The City of Kirkland will be conducting follow-up testing as early as Monday, Aug. 20, to determine the source and levels of the bacteria. The beach will be closed until at least Wednesday, Aug. 22, as testing is done to determine the source of the bacteria. Houghton Beach will reopen when testing shows the water is safe.

The Seattle-King County Public Health Department tests beaches throughout King County on a weekly basis. Most bacteria present are typically assumed to be of non-human origin. Many animals such as dogs and waterfowl can contribute to this form of bacteria in the water. Beach visitors are asked to refrain from feeding waterfowl such as ducks and geese since waterfowl populations raise levels of fecal coliform.

For more information, visit the King County website and search for “fecal coliform bacteria.”

Updates about Houghton Beach and other Kirkland waterfront parks will be posted to the City’s News Room webpage. To receive news releases via email, subscribe at www.kirklandwa.gov/ebulletins and select “City News Releases.”