W.P. Franklin South Recreation Area beach closed for swimming

Published April 17, 2018
Life jacket loaner station at W.P. Franklin swimming beach

Life jacket loaner station at W.P. Franklin swimming beach

ALVA, Fla. – The Jacksonville District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed the beach at W.P. Franklin South Recreation Area for swimming because of concerns about water quality. The beach remains open for sunbathing and recreational activities other than swimming.

“Public safety is always our primary concern,” said Tammy Cleveland, supervisory park ranger in the South Florida Operations Office in Clewiston. “We will let the public know as soon as possible when we are able to reopen the beach for their enjoyment.”

The other facilities at W.P. Franklin Lock and Dam Recreation Areas remain open. Day-use facilities include a visitor center with interactive displays, picnic areas, a playground, scenic views of the waterway, boat viewing and lock operations.

The Florida Department of Health recommended the closure after routine water test results returned with elevated levels of E. coli bacteria.

The beach will remain closed until test results meet the safety criteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health.

For information on the W.P. Franklin Lock and Visitor Center, call 239-694-2582.

Contact
Erica Skolte
561-340-1527
561-801-5734 (cell)
Erica.A.Skolte@usace.army.mil

Release no. 18-027