Chub Lake beach safe for swimmers

The signs are down and Chub Lake Beach is safe for swimming again, according to Carlton County officials, who retested the beach since sending out a notice in July.

Carlton County zoning and environmental services administrator Heather Cunningham explained that when the beach is closed due to failed test results, it applies only to the county-owned public beach, not the entire lake. Reasons for a failed test can vary, she said, but it is not because of failed septic systems at Chub Lake, a groundwater-fed lake which generally has good water. A county FAQ notes that the sources of fecal contamination at a beach are often not known for certain because of the complex workings of wind, weather and water patterns, in concert with the origin of fecal contamination, warm-blooded animals. These animals include waterfowl, wildlife, domesticated animals, pets, and humans.

Cunningham said this summer’s failed test came at a time when there had been no rain to wash away the goose poop and other contaminants from the beach.