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Inspection and Monitoring of County Beaches

Safety and bacteriological quality of the water at the area beaches are checked frequently throughout the summer season by the Environmental Health Specialist for Taylor County. When the concentration of fecal coliform in the water sample collected exceeds acceptable standards, the beach is posted with either a “Warning” or it is “Closed.”

The following County beaches are monitored:

  • Sackett Lake
  • South Harper Lake
  • Wellington Lake
  • Wood Lake

Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmer’s itch is a skin rash caused by certain parasites of birds and mammals. These parasites are released from infected snails and migrate through waters, including those used for recreational swimming. Parasites are capable of penetrating human skin causing an allergic reaction in some people. Initial symptoms include stinging and tingling of the skin followed some hours later by a reddish, pimply rash that may blister. The itching can last a week or more.


How Can You Reduce the Chances of Getting Swimmer’s Itch?

  • Towel off immediately after swimming
  • Swim in water away from shore
  • Avoid swimming in areas where snails accumulate
  • Do not encourage birds to stay near swimming areas by feeding them


For additional information, please contact Anthony Fraundorf at the Health Department at 715.748.1410 – option 5.

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