With the summer season well underway, the state Department of Environmental Protection is regularly testing water quality off New Jersey beaches.

Samples are analyzed for the presence of Enterococci, a type of bacteria found in animal and human waste that is an indicator of possible poor bathing water quality.

Bacteria levels were high off four Cape May County beaches this week, all in Wildwood Crest.

Advisories have been issued for the following oceanside beaches:

  • Forget-Me-Not Road Beach
  • Lavender Road Beach
  • Miami Avenue Beach
  • Orchid Beach

For now, the beaches are open, but additional water testing is being done. Results of the new samples will be released later on Wednesday.  Until then, beachgoers are urged to stay out of the water.

According to the DEP, beaches are closed if two consecutive samples collected at a bathing beach exceed the state standard. Beach closings remain in effect until subsequent sampling indicates bacteria levels are again below the standard.

The DEP tests the water quality off approximately 180 ocean and 35 bay beaches along the coast of New Jersey.

You can read more about the testing standards on the DEP website or by clicking here.

Eric Scott is the senior political director and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at eric.scott@townsquaremedia.com

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

Cape May, NJ: 15 wonderful places to visit

15 sensational places to visit in Seaside Heights and Seaside Park

From amusement rides to all the boardwalk food and lots of water fun, Seaside Heights and neighboring Seaside Park have endured as a family friendly spot for all ages.

Along the way, the Seaside Heights Boardwalk and Casino Pier have been struck with tragic disasters - such as fire, Superstorm Sandy and another fire. Both have proven their resiliency through rebuilding and expansion.

Here's where NJ legal weed is sold

The number of recreational cannabis dispensaries continues to grow, with close to two dozen state approvals given since the first adult recreational sales in the state back in April. Here is where the open sites are located.

More From Beach Radio