The City of Saint John, New Brunswick, has reopened three beaches that were closed for one week after water samples showed elevated bacteria levels. The beaches—Dominion Park Beach, Lily Lake Beach, and Bayshore Beach—were deemed safe for swimming again as of June 25, 2026, following new test results.
Beach closures due to high bacteria
The closures began on June 19, 2026, after routine water quality testing detected bacteria levels above the provincial safety guidelines. Signs warning 'not safe for swimming' were posted at the affected beaches, including Dominion Park Beach, where a photo showed the advisory. The city advised residents and visitors to avoid swimming until further notice.
According to the City of Saint John, the high bacteria counts were likely caused by recent heavy rainfall, which can wash contaminants such as animal waste and sewage into the water. The city works with the New Brunswick Department of Health to monitor water quality regularly during the summer season.
Reopening after clean tests
New water samples collected on June 24 showed bacteria levels had dropped to within safe limits. The city announced the reopening on June 25, just in time for the weekend. 'We are pleased to inform the public that Dominion Park Beach, Lily Lake Beach, and Bayshore Beach are now open for swimming,' said a city spokesperson in a statement. 'We thank residents for their patience and cooperation.'
Beachgoers are encouraged to check the city's website or social media for the latest water quality updates, as conditions can change quickly.
Ongoing monitoring
The city will continue to test water at all public beaches weekly throughout the summer. If bacteria levels rise again, closures may be reinstated. This incident highlights the importance of regular monitoring to protect public health.
