A water quality advisory was issued on Tuesday for the River-to-Sea Preserve in northeastern Flagler County. The warning was issued by the county government due to concerning ocean quality readings.
According to the announcement, a bacteria known as Enterococcus was detected in the ocean. The Florida Department of Health-Flagler is warning people to stay out of the water at the risk of contracting illness.
“Tests completed August 3, 2026, indicate that the water quality on the beach at the River to Sea Preserve does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health,” the Health Department said. “Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines.”
The advisory will remain in effect until additional water quality tests determine the concentration of Enterococcus is at an acceptable level, the county says.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Enterococcus is commonly found in the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals. This means when it’s found in bodies of water, it indicates the potential presence of sewage or fecal matter. While the enterococci themselves are not believed to be harmful, they indicate that other harmful substances may likely be present as well.
“Sources of fecal indicator bacteria such as enterococci include wastewater treatment plant effluent, leaking septic systems, stormwater runoff, sewage discharged or dumped from recreational boats, domestic animal and wildlife waste, improper land application of manure or sewage and runoff from manure storage areas, pastures, rangelands and feedlots,” the EPA says.
