Region begins beach sampling program for swimming areas

During the hot weather, beaches provide a fun way to cool off and spend time with family and friends.

York Region Health Services monitors water quality at the Region's public bathing beaches during the summer to ensure that the water quality is safe for swimming.

The 2007 York Region Beach Sampling Program officially began last Wednesday (June 13).

From June until the end of August, a minimum of five water samples will be collected and tested weekly from each of the following beaches: Recreation Island at Seneca College in King; Claredon Beach, Balfour Beach, De La Salle Beach, Franklin Beach, Holmes Point, Island Grove, Jackson's Point, Keswick Beach, North Gwillimbury Park, Glenwoods Beach, Peninsula Motel Beach, Port Bolster Beach, Willow Beach and Willow Wharf Dock in Georgina; Cedar Beach at Musselman's Lake and Shadow Lake in Whitchurch-Stouffville; and Sunset Beach on Lake Wilcox in Richmond Hill.

The Region also posts signs at each of the beaches, advising the public whether it is safe and unsafe to swim.

There are many factors that contribute to water pollution at the beaches, including: + Seasonal and storm surface run-off into rivers and lakes. + Agriculture manure and feedlot run-off. + Domestic pet waste run-off. + Sewer overflows and malfunctioning private sewage disposal systems. + Large population of waterfowl. + Warm water temperatures. + Boating waste.

Below is a list of tips to help keep local beaches open and safe for swimming: + If you own a pet, observe local "stoop and scoop" bylaws and remove their waste from city streets, public parks and private property. + Avoid attracting animals or birds to beaches by making sure not to feed them. + If you are planning an addition to your home, contact your local building department to ensure that plumbing fixtures are properly connected to municipal sanitary sewer pipes or your private sewage disposal system. + In agricultural communities, fence livestock away from streams and provide them with alternate water sources. + Ensure that run-off from feedlots and manure piles is properly maintained. + Upgrade and keep in good working order your private sewage disposal system. + Practice pollution-free boating by disposing of human wastes hygienically. + Avoid the water if you have an infection or open wound.

Several private beach associations monitor their own water quality. York Region Health Services welcomes the opportunity to assist beach associations with the set-up of water sampling programs.

To find out if your favourite beach is safe for swimming or for more information about the Beach Sampling Program contact the Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.