County warns of high levels of fecal bacteria in Lake Rose

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - It was a picturesque view over the calm waters of Lake Rose in Orange County Wednesday evening, but the county has posted warning signs that the water may not be safe.  

"I saw the sign saying warning, it's not actually good to go in the water, so I was wondering what it was," said Patrick Cortelazzo who lives near the lake.

The county says environmental officials found very high level of fecal coliform bacteria in the Lake. On Sunday they say a breakage at a privately-held lift station which holds raw sewage, caused untreated waste water to leak into a nearby canal that flows into Lake Rose.

"Fecal bacteria is out there, that's pretty scary," Cortelazzo said.

Orange County officials say they don't know the exact amount of the sewage overflow but they say it likely exceeds 1,000 gallons.   The county is urging residents to refrain from swimming, fishing, and boating in the 94 acre lake until further notice, they also say pet owners shouldn't let their four legged friends drink from the lake.

"She usually goes by and she can drink that water and that's pretty scary too, so keep the dogs away from the lake as well," Cortelazzo said.

Officials with Orange County say they’re also monitoring Lake Sherwood, they hope to have the problem fixed in about two weeks.