Fecal Matters: Health advisories issued for two beaches in Jefferson County & Dakwas Beach opened

Jefferson County Department of Heath issued no-contact advisories to water recreation at Herb Beck Marina beach and Oak Bay County Park beach. These advisories are due to high levels of fecal bacteria in the water. 

Signs have been posted at each beach to warn the public. These beaches are being re-sampled and the advisories will stay in effect until bacterial levels have dropped to safe levels.

Contact with fecal contaminated waters can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections and other illnesses. Children and the elderly may be more vulnerable to waterborne illnesses.

Dakwas Beach Park open

Good News! The Makah BEACH Program has lifted the no-contact advisory at Dakwas Park Beach in Neah Bay. Analysis of water samples collected recently found bacteria levels were low and safe for water contact.

Contact with fecal contaminated waters can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children and the elderly may be more vulnerable to waterborne illnesses.

Stay updated about water quality at your beaches by keeping up with us on our blog Fecal Matters, on Facebook, or join our listserv.

Julianne Ruffner, our BEACH Program Manager, is available at 360-407-6154 or julianne.ruffner@ecy.wa.gov for questions.