Can we swim in it?

Despite the strange weather and massive flooding across the Okanagan this spring, Interior Health and the City of Kelowna say there is no cause for concern about swimming in Okanagan Lake. 

Weekly tests are conducted at the beaches to check for bacteria, coliform and e.coli.

“Recent flood activity has brought with it a high level of organic material into the lake which can allow for the growth of bacteria, parasites, and algae,” said Juliana Gola, Team Leader Environment Health.

Gola said bodies of water are always flowing and changing so the public is advised to exercise caution and to check sampling results regularly.

“We have been doing weekly testing through Interior Health to verify the water quality is safe for people to go into the water and to date all the beaches we have tested in Kelowna have been confirmed to be acceptable,” said Ed Hoppe Water Quality and Customer Care Supervisor at City of Kelowna

If elevated levels of bacteria, coliform or e.coli are found, a second test will be done and a discussion with the city staff and Interior Health will take place to decide if the beach can stay open.

“With the flooding it had been a concern initially, but we have done our due diligence and we can confidently say that there is no issue right now,” said Hoppe.

RDCO Communications Officer Bruce Smith said there is no issues in the water that they have been made aware of.

"Our parks department is currently working on City Park and Waterfront Park and hopefully by the end of Friday we have it open for Canada Day celebrations," Smith said.

Interior Health would like to remind the public that there is the potential risk of encountering contaminants and infectious agents in recreational water.

To see the sample results visit this link.