Parks+Rec

Health advisory issued for Lincoln Park in Valparaiso following wastewater release

Water quality tests show acceptable bacteria levels, but officials warn of potential risks due to recent wastewater contamination in Boggy Bayou affecting the park area.

Jared Williams

The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County (DOH-Okaloosa) has issued a water quality advisory for Lincoln Park, located at 1217 N Bayshore Dr in Valparaiso, following a wastewater release in Boggy Bayou.

Despite water quality tests from October 14, 2024, indicating that Enterococcus bacteria levels meet the state’s recreational water quality criteria, health officials are cautioning the public about potential risks associated with the recent wastewater contamination.

“Waters contaminated with wastewater present several health hazards to humans and may contain untreated human sewage with microbes that could cause gastro-intestinal and other diseases,” the DOH-Okaloosa said in a press release.

The health department advises anyone who comes into contact with the affected waterway to wash thoroughly, especially before eating or drinking. Officials emphasize that children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable and should take extra precautions.

While the advisory is in effect, visitors to Lincoln Park are urged to exercise caution and avoid direct contact with the water where possible.

The DOH-Okaloosa continues to monitor the situation. Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.

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