Swimming in contaminated saltwater can cause illness in humans. We monitor beaches for fecal bacteria, notify the public when the results are high, and educate beach goers on how to avoid getting sick from playing in saltwater. The BEACH Program is led jointly by the Washington State Departments of Ecology and Health, and consists of county and local agencies, tribal nations, and volunteers.
Resources
Swimming Beach Advisories and Closures, Department of Ecology
For more information about the program and other resources such as monitoring results, reporting a sewage or oil spill, and staying safe at the beach, visit the Department of Ecology's BEACH Program.