The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program monitors the waters along Oregon's coastline for the presence of fecal bacteria, and reports elevated levels to the public.

Marine waters are tested for enterococcus, which is an indicator of the presence of other bacteria. Enterococcus is present in human and animal waste and can enter marine waters from a variety of sources such as streams and creeks, storm water runoff, animal and seabird waste, failing septic systems, sewage treatment plant spills, or boating waste.

Protecting Oregon Beaches

The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program selects beaches for monitoring based on pollution hazards, previous monitoring data, beach use, and public input. Check out the 2010-2011 Shoulder Season Beaches.

Sign up to receive health advisories by email.

Water Quality Data

The OBMP works with the Oregon Coastal Atlas to share and display beach water quality monitoring data. View recent and historic sampling data at www.coastalatlas.net