Designated public beaches are sampled for E. coli bacteria throughout the summer to help ensure safe swimming conditions. Water samples are typically collected once a week, though this may be reduced to monthly if the beach consistently had good water the previous summer.
A Public Beach is:
- Owned and operated by a municipality.
- Open to the general public for swimming.
Private Beach Sampling
- We only monitor designated public beaches.
- Please contact one of the private laboratories on the Government of Ontario's List of Licensed Laboratories to test the water quality of a private waterfront or beach.
Conditions that Affect Water Quality
- Rain: Heavy rain can wash contaminants into the water. Avoid swimming 24-48 hours after a heavy rainfall.
- Wind: Stong winds can stir up sand and silt, making the water cloudy. If you can't see your feet in waist-deep water, bacteria levels may be high.
- Birds and animals: Feces from birds and animals can increase bacteria levels, especially near the shoreline.
- Warm shallow water and wet sand: These conditions can promote bacteria growth. Always wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after playing in the sand or water.
LEGEND:
No Swimming advisory.
- Bacteria levels in the beach water are below the recreational water quality guideline of 200 E. coli per 100mL.
- The test results are usually received 24 hours after samples are collected.
- Beach water quality can change hourly due to environmental conditions.
- Be aware of conditions that impact beach water quality and make an informed decision before swimming.
Swimming advisory is posted.
- Bacteria levels in the beach water are above he recreational water quality guideline of 200 E. coli per 100mL.
- There is a risk of minor skin, eye, ear, nose or throat infections and stomach illness.
- Avoid dunking your head or swallowing the water if you choose to swim during an advisory.
- Swimming advisories are lifted once water testing show bacteria levels are below the recreational water quality guideline.
List of current swimming advisories.
Beach is closed.
- A beach is closed when a significant risk to health and safety has been identified, such as a sewage or chemical spill.
- Beach closures are rare.
*Provincial Park beach water quality data (i.e.: Wasaga Beach) is available at: http://www.ontarioparks.com
Testing Results by Area: