St Mary Lake on Salt Spring Island. March 8, 2013
Caution -Toxic algea may be present
Lake may be unsafe for people and pets
Until further notice: Be prudent
Do not swim or water ski in areas of scum
Do not drink lake water
Clean fish well and discard guts
Keep pets and livestock away
Frequently Asked Questions
Why monitor beaches?How are beaches chosen for sampling?
How often are beaches sampled?
When are beaches posted?
Who can I contact for more information?
Beaches are monitored to protect swimmers from illnesses that may be linked to unacceptable bacteria levels. Swimming in water with unacceptable bacteria levels can increase the risk of ear, nose and throat infection or stomach illnesses.
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Beaches are classified according to the number of swimmers using them, risk of pollution, sampling history and other factors. It is not possible to sample every beach or body of water where people may swim from time to time.
A classification system is used to determine which beach will be sampled and how often during the bathing season, which is explained next.
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Tier three: A beach is labeled tier three if many people swim there, there have been high bacterial counts in the past, and there may be sources of contamination near the beach.
These beaches are sampled weekly during the swimming season.
Tier two: A tier two beach has a moderate number of people swimming at it, a history of occasional poor samples (i.e. one incident of high bacteria over several years) and little chance of contamination.
These beaches are sampled every two weeks during the swimming season.
Tier one: A tier one beach has few swimmers using it, a good sampling history, (i.e. no incidences of high bacteria in the past) and no sources of contamination. They also have frequent water turn over due to tides, currents or water flow.
These beaches are not sampled unless an environmental health officer believes it is necessary to do so.
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Public beaches are not technically "closed" to public access. A warning sign is posted advising the public that the water may be unsafe for swimming.
Signs are posted when:
- the geometric mean of the sampling results exceeds 200 faecal coliform per 100 mL of water, or
- when circumstances warrant.
These sampling results indicate a higher risk of infection. Warning signs remain posted until sample results are once again within acceptable limits.
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Northern Beaches - Courtenay Office
250. 334.5454
Nanaimo, Parksville, Port Alberni -
Nanaimo Office
250.755.6215
Duncan/Cowichan - Duncan Office
250.737.2008
Greater Victoria - Gateway Village
250.519.3401
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