GRAY — High levels of the E. coli bacteria have led town officials to close Wilkies Beach on Crystal Lake.

Tests taken Monday showed levels exceed healthy standards, said Recreation Director Dean Bennett. The most likely culprit is a large flock of geese that have been making the pond home, he said.

Officials will take more water samples Thursday and should know by Friday whether the beach can reopen, he said.

The beach is small, but the town’s day camp typically goes there, and on a sunny day 50 to 100 people, children and their families, can be found there, he said.