Grey Bruce Public Health is advising the public that test results from water samples taken Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, at Kelso Beach at Nawash Park in Owen Sound show bacterial levels have returned to within the guidelines established by Ontario’s Ministry of Health as safe for swimming/bathing.

As a result, Grey Bruce Public Health has lifted the swim advisory for the beach.

“We’d like to extend our appreciation to the residents and visitors who adhered to the swimming advisory,” says Senior Public Health Manager Andrew Barton.

Kelso Beach at Nawash Park was posted as unsafe for swimming on July 31, 2026, after routine water-sampling results showed bacterial levels exceeding Ministry of Health standards for swimming/bathing.

People who swim, play in, or use beach water with high bacterial levels are at an increased risk of getting sick or an infection.

Grey Bruce Public Health reminds the public to always use their best judgment before swimming or allowing children to play in the water as outdoor water quality can change from day to day or even hour to hour depending on the weather and other conditions. People should assess the water’s condition in real-time and avoid swimming if they cannot see their feet in waist-deep water or 24 to 48 hours after heavy rainfall.

GBPH has developed a dedicated webpage about beach water safety and GBPH’s beach monitoring program. It can be found at the following link: Recreational Water.