SURRY, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Surry Mountain Lake Beach will reopen for swimming Wednesday after the latest water quality testing showed fecal bacteria levels had returned to normal, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The reopening ends a more than monthlong swimming advisory that began July 9 after routine testing found bacteria levels above New Hampshire’s standards for safe swimming.

Christie Baker, project manager for the Corps’ Surry Mountain and Otter Brook lakes, previously attributed the elevated readings to a large gathering of Canada geese and their young at the lake. At one point, officials estimated that as many as 40 geese and their offspring were using the area.

The geese created an ongoing challenge for officials because their droppings can introduce bacteria and parasites into the water. The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services warns that exposure to contaminated water can cause illnesses including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and skin rashes.

The swimming advisory remained in effect through late July as repeated testing continued to show elevated bacteria levels. Testing was temporarily postponed because of heavy rain in the forecast, with officials saying additional rainfall could further affect water quality results.

With the latest test showing bacteria levels back within acceptable limits, the designated swimming area will once again be available to the public.

Visitors can return to the beach and enjoy swimming and other recreation at Surry Mountain Lake. The previous advisory applied specifically to the designated swimming area; other park facilities and recreational areas remained open throughout the closure.