CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported two beaches had been closed due to high bacteria levels. The closure reported only involves Scarborough Beach-South. The story has been corrected to remove the error.
UPDATE: The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends reopening Scarborough State Beach South for swimming because bacteria counts have returned to safe levels.
NARRAGANSETT, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) has advised closing Scarborough Beach-South in Narragansett  because of high bacteria levels.
Scarborough Beach- North remains open for swimming.
According to the RI Department of Health website, beach closures are based on the concentration of Enterocci bacteria in beach water samples is measured in cfu/100ml (colony forming units per 100 milliliters). Beach closures are based on results of more than 60 cfu/100 ml in salt water and in fresh water.
RIDOH routinely monitors and reviews beach water quality regularly to ensure safe bathing throughout the summer. The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).
To check the status of beaches, use the Beach Viewer map. This map also reflects the most up-to-date information on water quality status at licensed beaches in Rhode Island.
Author: Rob Borkowski
Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.
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