Falls Lake beach reopens

The county routinely tests recreational lakes for bacteria, and when levels of enterococci bacteria exceed Environmental Protection Agency standards, the area is closed to any activity where someone's head might go underwater, officials said.

Tests at Beaverdam beach for the past two days have shown bacteria levels to be within EPA standards, officials said.

County inspectors recommended that people wash their hands with soap and water and thoroughly shower after swimming, tubing or skiing in area lakes to reduce chances of contracting a recreational water illness.