What is a Beach Closure?
When a known release of sewage is reported to the Ocean Water Protection Program, the ocean or bay water areas that may be affected by the sewage discharge are immediately closed to water-contact recreational activities.
The closure area is based on many factors including type of sewage (e.g., untreated, secondary treated, etc.), volume of spill, location of spill, ocean currents and tides, historical sewage spills in the area, and other pertinent information.
After the initial closure area is established, the appropriate agencies are notified, the area is posted with closure signs, a press release is issued, the Ocean, Harbor and Bay Water Closure & Posting Telephone Hotline and Web Page are updated with the beach closure information, and daily bacterial sampling of the affected area is initiated. The public is notified on the progress of the bacteria levels, as well as when the beach is safe enough to be opened again.
What causes Beach Closures?
Within the boundaries of SCWD, a beach closure is most likely caused when backed up, clogged or otherwise obstructed sewer lines rupture and leak into creeks, pipes, drains or other waterways that lead to the ocean, causing a sewage spill at or near a beach.
The bacteria and other hazardous waste contained in the sewage contaminate the ocean water making it unsafe to swim in as it can cause illness to beach goers.
Are beaches safe after a closing?
While a beach closure is in effect people are strongly advised to stay out of the water as it could cause illness.
The closed ocean or bay water area will be reopened or reduced in size when the contamination source has been eliminated and after two daily consecutive sampling results indicate the affected area meets the AB411 Ocean Water-Contact Sports Standards, whihc would mean that the water is safe again. The area will not be open to the public again until it is safe.
