BEACH Program

Closed Swim SignThe Beach Environmental Assessment, Communication and Health (BEACH) Program ensures that marine water is safe to swim and play in and informs the public if water doesn't meet swimming standards.

Clallam County and the State of Washington Department of Ecology rely heavily on the volunteer efforts of BEACH program volunteers. These folks do a wonderful job collecting water samples during the summer months at local saltwater beaches. Samples are tested for the presence of Enterococci bacteria which is an indicator organism for swimming beach water quality. This monitoring allows us to identify unsafe levels of bacteria in the water and make public notifications. We do this through press releases and beach postings. Results are also posted on the DOE BEACH program website.

The BEACH program runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. In Clallam County samples are collected weekly at Cline Spit, Hollywood Beach and Salt Creek Recreation Area.

Environmental Health Services coordinates the BEACH volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at 360-417-2258.