Residents and visitors in parts of North Miami-Dade are being told to stay out of the water following a wastewater spill that has resulted in a No Swim Advisory being issued for Maule Lake and surrounding areas. Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD) crews have repaired a 4-inch wastewater pipe near 4500 E. Island Blvd. after it was damaged by a private contractor, leading to an unpermitted release of wastewater into the lake.
Due to the closure, the public is advised to avoid contact with water in the boundaries set from Northeast 183rd Street to the north, the Oleta River to the south, Biscayne Boulevard to the west and the Intracoastal Waterway to the east. This includes popular spots such as the Oleta State Park and Greynolds Park, which are within the affected area, meaning both swimmers and those seeking to enjoy fishing and boating are out of luck until further notice.
According to the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department, water in the posted areas will be tested by the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County and the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources until the advisory can be lifted. This is contingent on two consecutive days of clear testing following the completion of the repair work.
In a statement outlining their priorities, the WASD said, "It is the priority of the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department to provide safe, reliable service to its customers." The public is urged to stay informed about the status of the No Swim Advisory and the health of the affected waterways by visiting their website for regular updates and additional information regarding department services and programs.
