Florida health officials advise caution as water at three Okaloosa parks fails safety standards
Okaloosa County, Florida – After recent water quality tests at three well-known recreational spots, the Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County issued a public health advisory. Officials are advising locals and guests of caution before diving into the water at Lincoln Park in Valparaiso, Clement E. Taylor Park in Destin, and Liza Jackson Park in Fort Walton Beach.
The advisory was announced on March 20, 2025, after routine testing conducted earlier in the week revealed elevated levels of Enterococcus bacteria in the water at all three locations. These findings indicate that, especially with regard to swimming or other direct water contact, the water now does not satisfy the safety criteria established by the Florida Department of Health for recreational usage.
Enterococcus is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. Although its presence in water is not rare, excessive levels can indicate fecal matter contamination, therefore raising the risk of disease—particularly for those with open wounds or compromised immune systems.
DOH-Okaloosa informs the public not to swim in or come into contact with the water at these parks until further notice. DOH-Okaloosa will continue to monitor water conditions and update the community as soon as the areas are deemed safe again.
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Regular testing under the Department’s Healthy Beaches program guarantees public safety over coastal and inland recreational waters. Monday, March 17, samples taken found bacterial levels higher than allowed, which called for quick response. Officials have not yet identified a specific source for the contamination.
DOH-Okaloosa underlined that although this recommendation is optional, it is crucial to safeguard public health. Although the parks and beaches are kept open for general use, all water-related activities are strongly discouraged until further notice. At every impacted site, signage has been placed to warn guests.
Those looking for updates or more information can either call DOH-Okaloosa directly at 850-833-9247 or visit the Healthy Beaches website of Florida Department of Health at FloridaHealth.gov. Once test findings show the water is safe for leisure use, the Department will issue new guidelines.
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Officials advise, as always, to remain informed and careful while organizing beach trips, especially during advisory periods or following significant rain.
