By DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
On April 3, extremely high levels of bacteria were present on Boca Chica Beach. The levels of bacteria at one point reached more than 24,000 colony-forming units (CFU) per 100 ml. Advisories begin at 104 colony-forming units per 100 ml, meaning the levels were at 240 times the Environmental Protection Agency’s limit.
The bacteria being monitored is called enterococcus, a naturally occurring bacterium from the intestines of warm-blooded animals. According to the Texas General Land Office (GLO), this bacterium is normal in coastal ecosystems, and it typically spikes due to rainfall, runoff from wildlife, agriculture, or sewage issues.
If someone were to come in contact with enterococcus, it could potentially cause waterborne illnesses like gastroenteritis, skin or ear infections. Most cases are mild, but kids, elderly, or those with cuts are at higher risk of sickness.
Anytime these levels are high, swimming, wade fishing, or physically touching the water at all is not recommended. Fish consumption safety depends on contaminants like mercury or PCBs, monitored by the Texas Department of State Health Services, which issues separate advisories if levels are unsafe.
A Texas General Land Office spokesperson said the March 27 storm contributed to this influx of bacteria. “The storm dumped 18–21 inches of rain in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, peaking Thursday, with runoff into the Rio Grande and Arroyo Colorado watersheds carrying bacteria like Enterococcus to beaches. Watersheds channel precipitation and pollutants downhill, and runoff from this event continues to mobilize contaminants to coastal areas.”
The GLO advises everyone to help keep beaches clean by picking up pet waste, trash, and food to deter wildlife. “It is important to note that the Texas General Land Office does not close beaches —local authorities do—but water contact is discouraged during advisories. Enjoy alternatives like volleyball, sunbathing, or picnicking instead. The public may use a beach under a water quality advisory if local authorities have not closed that beach.”
The advisory lasted until April 8. Levels at Boca Chica Beach as of Thursday, April 10 are between 5-10 CFU per 100 ml, a very low amount. As for the beaches on South Padre Island, the levels read between 5-63 CFUs. Water samples are at a medium rating (above 35 CFU) at 11 beach access points, including Andy Bowie Park, County Access #4, and Atwood Park. To find out more about bacteria levels, visit TexasBeachWatch.com.