KIRKLAND, Wash. — Houghton Beach has once again closed to swimmers due to high bacteria levels, and public health officials believe the cause may be coming from the sky.

Goose droppings, particularly from Canada geese, are suspected of washing into lakes and contributing to water contamination at swimming areas across Puget Sound. Houghton is among several beaches in the region affected this summer.

“It’s sad to see that the quality of water is such that you can’t enjoy it,” said Kirkland resident Colleen Sweeney.

Seattle’s Green Lake, Madrona Beach, Matthews Beach, Magnuson Park, and Madison Park have all faced closures at least once due to contamination, with some shutting down multiple times since May.

Experts say Canada geese thrive in urban areas like Puget Sound, thanks to plenti

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