Sewage spill of unknown size closes Isla Vista beach

A sewage spill in Isla Vista has prompted a beach closure Thursday, as public health officials warn of potential bacteria in the water.

According to a Santa Barbara County Public Health Department news release, officials issued a “beach closure” for all recreation water contact between Ocean Road and Camino Pescadero Park on Thursday, due to untreated sewage reaching the ocean along the shoreline.

According to the release, the spill, “involved a release of an unknown quantity of sewage to a storm drain discharging near Pelican Park in Isla Vista.”

Signage has been posted warning people to stay away from the water in the area.

The Public Health Department also warned that sport harvesters should avoid harvesting shellfish from the area, as high bacteria levels may contaminate the shellfish beds.

Adequate cooking of shellfish will destroy harmful bacteria, but may not be effective in killing viruses, according to the release.

Kaytlyn Leslie

The Tribune

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Kaytlyn Leslie writes about business and development for The San Luis Obispo Tribune. Hailing from Nipomo, she also covers city governments and happenings in San Luis Obispo. She joined The Tribune in 2013 after graduating from Cal Poly with her journalism degree.