One of two area beaches that was closed recently due to high levels of fecal coliform bacteria has been reopened.

The Polk County Health Department reopened the beach at Half Moon Lake, near Milltown, Tuesday after tests indicated the lake water had returned to safe levels.

The other beach, on Big Butternut Lake near Luck, remains closed. The lake must pass two consecutive tests before health officials will reopen it.

According to the health department, fecal coliform bacteria is an indicator of human or animal waste contamination and could be the result of waterfowl, sewage overflows, agricultural stormwater runoff or sewage treatment plant malfunctions. Recent rainstorms in the area are likely to have contributed to the increased bacteria counts.

Swimming in unsafe water may result in minor illnesses such as ear, nose or throat infections, gastroenteritis, or upset stomach, being the most common. Children, the elderly or persons with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of illness when in contact with contaminated water.

For more information about beach monitoring and safety, call the Polk County Health Department at (715) 485-8532 or visit www.epa.gov/waterscience/beaches.

— Kyle Weaver, from press release