Watchaug Pond beach closed AGAIN to swimming

Unhealthy bacteria levels

By Will Collette

We seem to be having a tough summer season for contaminated water. On and off closures of popular beaches like Scarborough certainly disappoint tourists and day-trippers.

Shell-fishing bans at cause problems for our growing aquaculture industry and endanger private citizens who enjoy coming home with a bucket of fresh clams.

The new, second closure for Watchaug Pond raises questions about what we are doing to our water. It may also give further grounds for opposition to DEM’s potential re-opening of the long-closed North Campground in Burlingame.

Here is the state Health Department’s announcement about Burlingame.

RIDOH Recommends Re-Opening Scarborough Beach South and Closing Burlingame Picnic Area for Swimming

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends the re-opening of Scarborough Beach South for swimming because bacteria counts have returned to safe levels. 

RIDOH recommends the closure of Burlingame Picnic Area on Watchaug Pond in Charlestown for swimming due to high bacteria levels. 

Camp Watchaug in Charlestown and Briar Point Beach in Coventry remain closed for swimming.

RIDOH will continue to monitor the water quality regularly to assure safe bathing throughout the summer season. 

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) and at www.health.ri.gov.