August 4, 2026 - L'Orignal Beach is now safe for swimming.
Following daily water quality testing conducted by the Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU), bacterial levels have returned to acceptable standards and the water quality advisory has been lifted.
Residents and visitors may once again enjoy swimming at L'Orignal Beach.
About Beach Water Testing
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit monitors water quality at public beaches throughout the summer season to ensure bacterial levels remain within provincial guidelines for safe recreational use.
Several factors can affect water quality, including:
- Runoff carrying contaminants into nearby waterways following heavy rainfall.
- Waterfowl, wildlife, pets, and livestock near water sources.
- Failing or poorly maintained septic systems and other sources of environmental contamination.
Public beach advisories are often issued following significant rainfall events, which can wash contaminants into rivers and lakes, temporarily affecting water quality.
When elevated bacterial levels are detected, the Eastern Ontario Health Unit increases monitoring and sampling frequency. The most common indicator used to assess water quality is E. coli. In Ontario, recreational water quality guidelines establish a maximum of 200 E. coli per 100 mL of water.
Water testing results and updates are available on the Eastern Ontario Health Unit website.