GRAY – Wilkies Beach, on Crystal Lake in Gray, has been closed for the second straight year due to high counts of E. coli bacteria.

The beach was closed effective Wednesday. Tests conducted earlier this week found high levels of bacteria, likely caused by a large flock of geese nearby. A notice sent out by the town said it is monitoring the situation at the beach and the closure will remain in effect until results from water analysis indicate the water is safe for swimming.

According to the town, more information is available by calling Ryan Keith, the town’s health officer, at 657-3112 or Dean Bennett, of the Gray Parks & Recreation Department, at 657-2323.