POLK COUNTY — The Polk County Health Department has lifted the water advisory on South Twin Beach in Amery. Two consecutive samples have indicated bacteria levels are at safe swimming levels. Weekly monitoring will continue through Labor Day to ensure bacteria remain at safe levels for swimmers.
The Health Department recommends swimmers take caution when swimming at any beach, especially after heavy rains Bacteria counts usually rise after a rainstorm at all beaches. The most frequent sources of disease-causing microorganisms are waterfowl fecal contamination, storm water runoff, sewage treatment plant malfunctions, boating wastes and malfunctioning septic systems.
When bacteria levels are above safe swimming levels, a skin irritation and rash known as “swimmers itch” may appear. A couple ways to prevent swimmers itch is by drying off with a clean dry towel after swimming before water dries on the skin or showering with clean water shortly after swimming. Consult your primary care provider if a rash becomes severe or persists longer than 1-2 weeks.
For more information about beach monitoring and safety, you can call the Polk County Health Department at 715-485-8400. Updates regarding swimming advisories in Polk County can be found here.
Last Update: Jul 22, 2025 1:08 pm CDT
