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

Add Get The Coast on Google

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.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Public Safety

New health advisory issued for Cinco Bayou days after previous one lifted

Public Safety

Health advisory issued for Cinco Bayou as environmental incident investigation continues

Public Safety

Niceville, Valparaiso fire agencies to launch ‘boundary drop’ response model May 1

Parks+Rec

Okaloosa Health Department promotes cleaner, safer parks and beaches as spring season begins

You know who commented on Okaloosa County votes to close public beaches

“It appears as though the county has placed the video recording of the meeting down the memory hole! If only there was a news organization with curiosity left 😉”

Respond

Mary Johnson-Berlye commented on Former AFSOC command chief found guilty of child pornography charges, sentenced to 10 years

“HE.... FTFO”

Jeffrey Pendleton commented on 10 candidates tackle budget, services and spending cap at Fort Walton Beach City Council forum

“I am completing my list of all 10 questions. I will answer them all.”

Brandi Romero commented on Two charged after Fort Walton Beach police sting targets underage alcohol sales

“I am glad they started investigating. When my daughter was 17, she said highschool kids knew which smaller gas stations would see them Vapes too...”

Laura Rust commented on Former AFSOC command chief found guilty of child pornography charges, sentenced to 10 years

“I bet there are victims everywhere he has been stationed. He should have received the death penalty!”

Lois Asleson commented on Former AFSOC command chief found guilty of child pornography charges, sentenced to 10 years

“Disgusting that he was only sentenced to 10 years! He has likely ruined the children’s lives. It is very difficult for anyone to get over something like that and to...”

Linda Wheeler commented on Former AFSOC command chief found guilty of child pornography charges, sentenced to 10 years

“Justice has been served. This person deserves to lose everything he worked his whole life to accomplish.”

Mike commented on Former AFSOC command chief found guilty of child pornography charges, sentenced to 10 years

“By pleading not guilty, he essentially forced his victim to testify, that alone is reprehensible.”

Mary commented on 10 candidates tackle budget, services and spending cap at Fort Walton Beach City Council forum

“I agree with Cheryl. Each candidate should have been asked the same questions. I've never attended or coordinated a candidate's forum that was set up like this.”

Cheryl Perkins Malagday commented on 10 candidates tackle budget, services and spending cap at Fort Walton Beach City Council forum

“I want to hear each candidate's opinion or answer to EACH question.”