Tuscarora State Park beach reopened for swimming

Jun. 17—The beach at Tuscarora State Park has been reopened to swimmers, effective Friday.

It had been closed Wednesday after harmful algae were detected. The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, which runs the park in Rush, Ryan and Schuylkill townships, made the decision when results from the state Department of Environmental Protection came in Wednesday morning.

Park officials said Friday the harmful algae returned to safe levels after being re-tested.

The department conducted the routine testing at Tuscarora and nearby Locust Lake State Park. The beach at Locust Lake remained open.

Park Manager Nicholas Sulzer said Wednesday several types of cyanol, or blue green, algae occur naturally in water bodies in the state and, depending on weather conditions, can reach a level harmful to people and animals.

The park is required to test for E. Coli weekly, and they look for signs of algae growth.

Officials advised visitors to be on the lookout for signs of harmful algae blooms, including green, green/blue, blue, brown, gold or red colors in, on or near the water's edge; algae-like scum, foam, mats or clumps; and paint-like streaks.

Officials also recommended washing with soap and water after contact with untreated water, not to ingest untreated water, and to check water conditions before boating, swimming, fishing or allowing pets in it.

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