TAMPA, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) has issued a water quality advisory for Picnic Island Beach, urging the public to avoid swimming and water-related activities at this location until further notice.
The advisory applies specifically to:
- Picnic Island Beach 7404 Picnic Island Beach Blvd. Tampa, FL 33616
Water samples collected on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, indicated that the levels of Enterococcus bacteria exceed the recreational water quality standards recommended by the state. Enterococcus bacteria can indicate the presence of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife, or human sewage.
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Due to the increased risk of illness for swimmers, DOH-Hillsborough advises against any activities involving contact with the water at Picnic Island Beach. Exposure to water with elevated bacteria levels can potentially lead to gastrointestinal issues, infections, or rashes.
This advisory is part of routine water quality monitoring conducted by the health department. It will remain in effect until subsequent water sample tests show that bacteria levels have returned to within the accepted health range established by state guidelines.
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