SURRY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) – Surry Mountain Lake Beach has officially reopened for swimming after recent tests confirmed that the water quality meets New Hampshire’s safety standards. The lake had been closed temporarily due to concerns over elevated bacteria levels.

The closure, which occurred after routine testing detected slightly higher-than-normal bacteria counts, was a precautionary measure. Officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had posted warnings at the beach, advising the public to avoid swimming while additional testing was conducted. This routine is not uncommon, especially after periods of heavy rainfall, which can wash contaminants into the water.

Further testing was carried out on Monday, and the results showed that the bacteria levels had returned to safe levels, allowing the beach to reopen, officials stated in a social media post Tuesday. The N.H. Department of Environmental Services, which oversees water quality, noted that while advisories may be issued when bacteria counts are elevated, the decision to close a beach is typically left to the property owners. In this case, the temporary closure was a proactive step to ensure public safety.

In the past, Surry Mountain Lake Beach has experienced similar issues, including a 2022 incident where elevated E. coli levels, likely caused by runoff following heavy rains, led to a brief closure. Similarly, advisories have been issued at other local beaches, such as Otter Brook Lake beach in Keene (now permanently closed), when fecal bacteria levels exceeded state standards.

Exposure to water with high levels of fecal bacteria can pose health risks, including gastrointestinal illnesses.

For more information, residents and visitors are encouraged to contact the local office at 352-4130.