Clallam County and the Washington State Department of Health depend significantly on the volunteer contributions of the Olympic Baywatchers. These volunteers play a crucial role in collecting mussel samples for monitoring Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP), Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP), and Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP). This monitoring enables the identification of elevated biotoxin levels and facilitates timely public notifications. In the event of a beach closure by the Washington State Department of Health, Clallam County informs the public through press releases and on-site postings.
Clallam County Environmental Health Services coordinates the Olympic Baywatchers for biotoxin monitoring at Pitship Point (John Wayne Marina), Freshwater Bay, and Pillar Point. Additionally, Environmental Health Services conducts biweekly mussel sampling at Ediz Hook to assess biotoxin levels. All samples collected from Clallam County beaches are submitted to the Washington State Department of Health Laboratory for analysis.
Environmental Health Services oversees the coordination of Baywatcher volunteers.
Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to fill out a volunteer application form. If you have trouble opening this form, try downloading it and then filling it out. Please return your application to alexander.gordash@clallamcountywa.gov.