Starting June 9, 2026, Oneida County Health Department (OCHD) will test water at five public beaches each week throughout the summer.
The following beaches will be monitored by Oneida County Health Department:
- Buck Lake Beach – Rhinelander
- Boom Lake Beach – Rhinelander
- Sugar Camp Public Beach – Sugar Camp
- Torpy Park – Minocqua
- Maple Lake Beach – Three Lakes
OCHD tests the water for E. coli, a type of bacteria that can make people and animals sick. E. coli infection symptoms can be mild or severe. Common symptoms include: diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, or nausea and vomiting. If you have been in the water and think you have an E. coli infection, contact Oneida County Health Department and seek medical attention, if symptoms are severe.
OCHD staff will also monitor the beaches for cleanliness and for blue-green algae blooms.
Conditions can change quickly, so swimmers should be on the lookout if the water looks like pea soup, green or blue spilled paint, or has a green scum layer on the surface. When in doubt, stay out!
Help prevent E. coli outbreaks in swimming areas by:
- Picking up dirty diapers and fecal matter from dogs
- Do not feed seagulls and other birds
- Look for birds flying over water recreation areas
- Check water conditions: if you see algal blooms, avoid the water
E. coli levels can be higher after heavy rain because dirty water can wash into lakes and beaches.
Stay informed about beach conditions:
- Check the website or Facebook page: OCHD staff update the website and Facebook page every week.
- Look for the signs at the beach: OCHD staff will have yellow advisory signs and red closure signs posted at the beach, if E. coli levels are high.
To report a blue-green algae bloom or illness, visit Wisconsin Department of Health here, or contact OCHD at 715-369-6111 or email eh@oneidacountywi.gov.