Two Fort Erie beaches test positive for E. Coli on Labour Day weekend
September 7, 2026 at 7:31 AM
Bay Beach is now one of two Fort Erie beaches deemed unsafe for swimming, according to Niagara Region’s latest beach water test results.
The region listed the iconic Crystal Beach tourist location as unsafe to swim due to E. coli, based on a water sample taken on September 4. Waverly Beach has also been unsafe due to E. coli since August 25.
Bernard Avenue Beach and Crescent Beach remain open for swimming. Their most recent results are dated August 25.
Swimming in E. coli affected water can lead to ear, eye, nose, throat and skin infections, as well as diarrhea if the water is swallowed.
A beach is deemed unsafe or closed when water tests show unacceptable levels of E. coli, according to the region’s website.
Niagara Region said test results “may not always be accurate” and depend on the number of swimmers or birds at the beach, wind and waves, cloudy water and recent heavy rainfall. Residents are encouraged to consider current weather before entering the water.
The region tests more than 19 public beaches for E. coli each year between the Victoria Day and Labour Day weekends.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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