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A water quality advisory has been issued for Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

‘Fecal bacteria’ prompts water quality advisory for Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

May 28, 2025 | 1:11 PM

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is advising the public not to swim, wade in or drink the water at a southern Alberta park.

They have issued a water quality advisory for Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park, effective immediately and until further notice.

“Elevated levels of fecal bacteria were detected via testing of the river water at this beach location. At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water at this beach at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park,” reads the advisory from AHS.

The health authority also warns of possible skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.

As always, visitors and residents are asked to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir at any time. Waterborne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

AHS Environmental Public Health officers will continue to monitor the water at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park.

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