Elevated E. Coli Levels Detected at Avocado Lake Swim Beach
August 1, 2025 – Fresno County Sheriff's Office officials report that the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board (Central Valley Water Board) has identified elevated levels of E. coli at Avocado Lake Swim Beach. A sample collected on July 30th surpassed the Statewide Bacteria Water Quality Objectives established by the California State Water Resources Control Board. These objectives are in place to protect recreational users from harmful pathogens in California water bodies.
The Central Valley Water Board monitors and evaluates water quality data for many Central Valley lakes and rivers used for recreational activities. Weekly E. coli samples are collected in selected watersheds, with results publicly available on an Interactive Online Map updated each Friday. The monitoring results for the Lower Kings River watershed can be viewed here.
Sampling for E. coli provides a way to monitor the overall well-being of recreational waters. E. coli is a bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and serves as an indicator of fecal pollution in water. Elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of illness for swimmers and others who interact with the water. While most E. coli strains are harmless, it is essential to be cautious when levels exceed recommended safety thresholds.
Given the recent elevated E. coli levels at Avocado Lake Swim Beach, Healthy Fresno County (Department of Public Health) advises the public to avoid swimming in the lake until further notice. For your safety, please adhere to the following healthy water habits when recreating in Central Valley water bodies:
- Do not drink river or lake water.
- Do not use river or lake water for cooking or washing dishes.
- Wash yourself and your family thoroughly with clean water after swimming and wash your hands before eating.
- If you have health concerns related to water exposure, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
The County of Fresno will work with the Central Valley Water Board to assess the water quality at Avocado Lake Swim Beach. In addition, the Fresno County Department of Public Health will utilize syndromic surveillance and monitor for elevated E. coli cases.
Source & photo: Fresno County Sheriff's Office
