Swimming prohibited at Nahant beach

NAHANT – Black Rock Beach in Nahant was closed to swimmers as of Tuesday morning due to high bacteria counts.Nahant Town Administrator Mark Cullinan said water samples taken Monday had elevated bacteria levels and the beach would remain closed through Aug. 17.Black Rock Beach, which is more commonly known as Doggie Beach, is located off Castle Road opposite the Nahant Lifesaving Station.The beach is popular with dog owners because it is the only beach in town where licensed dogs are allowed to run off-leash.Cullinan said he doesn’t believe the elevated bacteria levels are due to the presence of dogs on the beach. He pointed out Black Rock Beach has been closed due to elevated bacteria less often than other beaches in the area, which do not allow dogs.Cullinan said the bacteria levels at all other town-owned beaches fell within acceptable levels so other beaches would be open for swimming.