Before you head out trick-or-treating, stop by the Lanark & District Community Centre for a Free Halloween Skate!
Friday, Oct. 31 | 5–6 PM
Enjoy skating, spooky tunes, and sweet treats!⛸️
Costumes welcome — just make sure you can move on the ice! 

What Do the Beach Results Mean?

OPEN – The latest bacterial test of the water indicated acceptable levels of bacteria and can be used for swimming and other recreation purposes.

CAUTION – The water is not recommended for swimming. The latest bacterial tests of the water indicated unacceptable levels of bacteria.

CLOSED – DO NOT USE The beach is closed for recreational use due to an identified health hazard/condition that makes the beach unsafe for use.

N/A – Results are not available.

The beach results are updated once weekly throughout the summer season.

While the Health Unit strives to alert swimmers when conditions are not suitable for swimming, the public must be aware that conditions may change, and that there is always a level of risk when swimming in untreated water.

1. Cloudy water from high winds causing waves or following a heavy rainfall can be an indication of high levels of bacteria which may pose a health and safety risk as you may be unable to see what is in the water.
2. Shallow, sheltered and warm water may also contain high levels of bacteria. 
3. If there are a high number of geese or bird feces on the beach we would recommend not swimming as often time the feces from the birds will contaminate the water.
4. Dirty water from storm sewers and the streets that washes into the river or lake after a rain storm.
5. Faulty or overwork septic systems, agricultural runoff and sewage treatment plant bypasses.
6. Blue-green algae are tiny, plant-like organisms that also can be found in ponds, rivers, lakes and streams. Blooms usually appear in late summer and in the early fall especially in areas where the water shallow, slow moving and warm however blooms can also be found in deeper, cooler water.  They can cause skin rashes if you come in contact with it, as well as stomach issues if you drink it. They can also be toxic to pets. Blue-green algae blooms can range from green, blue, and even red and yellow. They can be cloudy, even foamy or soapy or look like a film on the water.

Beach Results – July 18, 2025

Think about factors that may affect the quality/safety of the water before you visit a local beach (heavy rain in the area within 24 hours and water fowl droppings in the water/on the beach may contribute to high bacteria levels).

Corporation of the Township of Lanark Highlands intends to participate in one or more procurements conducted by Local Authority Services (LAS) between October 2024 to October 2025. For further information and access to LAS request for proposal (RFP) notices, please review the website at www.las.on.ca.