Gifford Pinchot State Park in York County, Pennsylvania, has been closed for swimming for the rest of the year due to elevated levels of E.coli and harmful algae conditions. The announcement was made by park officials who stated that the closure affects both the Quaker Race swimming area and the Campground beach.
The decision to close the beaches for the remainder of the swimming season was made after water sample test results showed heightened levels of E.coli and harmful algae in both swimming areas, according to a report on Yahoo News.
While swimming is prohibited until May 2025, other activities such as boating and fishing will still be permitted. However, visitors are urged to take precautions while near the water to protect themselves from harmful algae and water illnesses. These precautions include washing hands after contact with untreated water, showering or bathing immediately after participating in water-based recreation activities, avoiding swallowing and inhaling untreated water, and avoiding contact with water that has foam, scum, or discoloration.
Visitors are also advised to seek and follow any waterbody advisories or closures. The park will reopen for swimming in May 2025.