Saint John residents looking to cool off this weekend with a swim at Lily Lake in Rockwood Park will have to look elsewhere. On Friday, the City of Saint John said swimming was not permitted at Lily Lake due to elevated bacteria levels found in recent water tests conducted by Public Health. “Warning signs have been posted at the site, and lifeguards will be on duty during regular operating hours to advise visitors and help ensure safety,” a news release from the city reads. The city notes the planned Dragons on the Lake Dragon Boat Festival at Lily Lake on Saturday will go forward. “Dragon boating involves a lower level of water exposure than swimming and may proceed as a secondary-contact recreational activity during the advisory,” the release reads. “Health Canada distinguishes between primary-contact activities, such as swimming and wading, where the whole body or face may be immersed in the water, and secondary-contact activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing, which generally involve a lower level of exposure to the water.” Festival participants and members of the public are asked to minimize their contact with the water and to avoid swallowing it. Festival organizers have set up on-site washing facilities for participants. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
