Fortunes Rocks Beach was temporarily closed on June 30 following an elevated bacteria reading. Given the public health implications and the inconvenience of a beach closure during the summer season, I met with Alisha Keezer, Waterfront Coordinator for the City of Biddeford, to better understand the circumstances surrounding the advisory.
As part of the Maine Healthy Beaches Program, the City of Biddeford monitors water quality throughout the summer at Hills Beach, Biddeford Pool, Middle Beach, and Fortunes Rocks Beach. The elevated reading was recorded at the Fortunes Rocks sampling location located in knee-deep water directly offshore from the Etherington Pond drainage outfall.
Water samples are analyzed by a certified laboratory for Enterococcus, a naturally occurring bacteria used as an indicator of potential fecal contamination. While the presence of Enterococcus does not identify the specific source of contamination, it serves as a standard public health measure used nationwide to determine whether recreational waters are safe for swimming.
Historical monitoring data from 2000 through 2026 show that bacteria levels at this location have been consistently low. Over the past five years, readings have typically been 10 MPN/100 mL or less, with only two previous results approaching 50 MPN/100 mL. The 134 MPN/100 mL reading recorded on June 29, 2026, exceeded the State's advisory threshold of 104 MPN/100 mL. However, a follow-up sample collected the next day had already returned to 10 MPN/100 mL, suggesting that the elevated reading was a short-lived event rather than a persistent water quality issue.
The City's preliminary investigation identified that the outlet flap boards regulating water discharge from Etherington Pond had been tampered with. The flap boards have since been secured with locks. The City is also investigating other potential contributors within the watershed, including compliance with local ordinances governing livestock near the pond. Additional possible sources under consideration include wildlife, septic system failures, stormwater runoff, and landscape chemicals. At this time, the City has not identified a definitive cause.
Our long-time member Louis Rana also contacted the Mayor regarding the closure. As a result, we are now in communication with the City Manager to better understand the City's monitoring and investigation procedures and how future incidents can be evaluated to distinguish between contamination originating from ocean conditions and potential sources within the Etherington Pond watershed.
In addition to collecting weekly water samples, the City's Waterfront Coordinator also measures ocean temperature and salinity throughout the swimming season. The City is currently seeking volunteers to assist with this monitoring program. Members interested in participating are encouraged to contact the City of Biddeford Waterfront Program.
We will continue to keep members informed as additional information becomes available.