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Health advisory lifted for Bass Lake and Dons Bayou in Fort Walton Beach following wastewater spill

The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County (DOH-Okaloosa) has lifted a health advisory for Bass Lake and Dons Bayou, officials announced Monday. “Sampling of the waters in that area […]

City of Fort Walton Beach

The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County (DOH-Okaloosa) has lifted a health advisory for Bass Lake and Dons Bayou, officials announced Monday.

  • The advisory was initially issued following a sewer main break on July 6 that resulted in a wastewater spill into Bass Lake. Water quality testing has now shown that bacterial levels in the affected areas have dropped below the advisory threshold.

“Sampling of the waters in that area have resulted in bacterial levels below the advisory level,” DOH-Okaloosa stated.

The lifting of the advisory comes nine days after the initial incident, which saw approximately 9,000 gallons of untreated wastewater enter Bass Lake due to a ruptured 12-inch cast-iron forcemain on Lakeview Road NW.

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“What are the symptoms that the person gets from West Nile virus”
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Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: August 24, 2026
“1:19, 5 attempts”
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“We also need to be alerted when these advisory are issued. How are we supposed to find out about them? We were in the water over the weekend since the...”
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“Congrats Mayor Franks! Shalimar has always been a leading small town, in Fla, and you have been a fantastic Mayor, that really mingles with the people! Congrats”
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“Has a cause been identified? What action is being taken? Is the county sewer system defective or broken? Our citizens deserve full disclosure!”
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“The sadness of this community and the patients of Magnolia Medical Clinic and Demetrius Thomas family and friends will never cease. Just over 3 years since his senseless and tragic...”
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Michael Cobb commented on WordroW: August 19, 2026
“3,14”
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Michael Cobb commented on WordroW: August 18, 2026
“2 min 17 sec”
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“Please consider, brown flag. To ensure people are warned ahead of existing pathogens and bacteria. TDC has funds available. Thank you.”
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“Brown flag, is needed. Please get on this.As for public safety. Thanks for your dedication.”
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