CALIFORNIA – A beach in Orange County just received the crown for the highest levels of bacterial pollution in the entire state of California.
The 29th annual Beach Report Card ranked the best and worst beaches for water quality. San Clemente Pier took the top spot on the Beach Bummer list, which ranks the levels of pollution.
Many of California’s beaches are still feeling the impact of the Woolsey Fire, which drastically decreased the water quality grades across the state. The main reason is due to wildfires increasing the amount of runoff due to vegetation loss and infrastructure damage.
Before people decide to steer clear of beaches that landed on the Beach Bummer list there are some tips to stay safe. Swimmers should avoid shallow or enclosed beaches that don’t circulate water. Beach goers should also swim a minimum of 100 yards away from storm drains, creeks, and piers. It is also advised to avoid swimming in the ocean for at least 72 hours after rainfall.
The report says with the mounting effects of climate change, the state can expect more wildlife negatively impacting water quality.
Top 10 Beach Bummers:
- San Clemente Pier: Orange County
- Clam Beach County Park near Strawberry Creek: Humboldt County
- Linda Mar Beach at San Pedro Creek: San Mateo County
- Long Beach City Beach at Coronado Avenue: Los Angeles County
- Cowell Beach, west of the wharf: Santa Cruz County
- Monarch Beach North at Salt Creek: Orange County
- Mother’s Beach, between Tower and Boat Dock: Los Angeles County
- Cabrillo Beach, harborside at restrooms: Los Angeles County
- Keller Beach, South Beach: Contra Costa County
- Aquatic Park: San Mateo County