As summer heats up in Southern California, many people are flocking to the beach for some relief. However, beachgoers should be cautious about diving into the waters near the Santa Monica Pier. For the second consecutive year, this popular beach has been ranked as one of the dirtiest in California, according to Heal the Bay, an environmental nonprofit.
In its annual Beach Report Card, Heal the Bay placed the Santa Monica Pier beach at No. 2 on its list of the state’s dirtiest beaches. This ranking stems from ongoing water quality problems, particularly concerning high levels of fecal bacteria such as coliform, E. coli, and enterococcus. These bacteria can indicate the presence of harmful pathogens that pose health risks to swimmers.
Heal the Bay monitors over 500 beaches along the California coast, assessing water samples to ensure safety. Along with Santa Monica, the report highlighted several other beaches in California, including four in San Diego County, three in San Mateo County, and one in Marin County. The dirtiest beach on the list was found in Baja California, Mexico.
Despite recent improvements to the Santa Monica Pier, such as new stormwater capture systems and bird deterrent netting, pollution remains a significant issue. Urban runoff and activities like disposing of fish guts from recreational fishing contribute to the contamination, attracting seabirds that further pollute the waters.
In response to the report, Santa Monica city officials stated that they are actively researching and implementing strategies to improve water quality in the area surrounding the pier. They acknowledged the challenges posed by piers, which can hinder ocean water circulation.
Tracy Quinn, the CEO of Heal the Bay, expressed concern for families visiting the beach, emphasizing the need for the city to prioritize efforts to reduce bacteria levels. She pointed out that many visitors might unknowingly expose themselves to polluted waters while enjoying their time at the beach.
In January, heavy rainfall and debris from wildfires led to a temporary closure of ocean waters from Malibu to Playa del Rey. Although the advisories have since been lifted, Heal the Bay continues to monitor the effects of fire-related debris on water quality.
While Santa Monica Pier is the only beach in Los Angeles County to make the list of California’s dirtiest beaches, the report also highlighted a significant improvement in overall coastal water quality across the state. California saw a decrease in rainfall this year, leading to fewer pollutants entering the ocean.
Officials recommend that beachgoers stay at least 100 yards away from storm drains and river outlets and wait at least 72 hours after it rains before swimming. As the summer season progresses, it’s essential for visitors to stay informed about water quality to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach experience.