SILVERDALE — Kitsap public health officials have reopened the swimming beaches at Island Lake County Park and Island Lake Crista Camp.

The beaches were initially closed last week due to high levels of E. coli in the water. Subsequent test results have shown that the water is now considered safe for human contact again.

Cyanobacteria warnings issued last week for Kitsap Lake and Long Lake due to an algae bloom remain in effect. They are not expected to be lifted for at least two weeks. As a reminder, the public is urged to heed the following advice:

• Avoid all contact with the water until further notice, meaning no swimming, wading or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth nose or eyes (especially in locations where the algae is concentrated).
• Avoid ingesting water in or flowing from the lakes. Residents who draw drinking water from the lake are encouraged to use bottled water until further notice.
• Limit access of pets and livestock to the lake.
• Avoid consuming fish caught during the algae bloom.
• Rinse boats and trailers thoroughly before going to another lake.