Beachgoers might encounter fecal pollution during their swim over the Labor Day weekend along the coasts of the United States.

In a recent conversation, the focus was on the high levels of fecal contamination found in beaches across the United States. John Rumpler, clean water director and senior attorney with Environment America, emphasized the urgency of the issue.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report published in the summer of 2024, nearly two-thirds of beaches tested nationwide in that year experienced at least one day in which indicators of fecal contamination reached potentially unsafe levels.

The report found that the Gulf Coast had the highest percentage of beaches exceeding standards, with 84% of beaches exceeding the standard at least once. The West Coast followed closely with 79%, while the East Coast had 54%, and the Great Lakes had 71%.

Several popular beach destinations have reported closures this week due to high bacteria counts. Keyes Memorial Beach in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Benjamin's Beach on Long Island, New York, and a portion of the Imperial Beach shoreline near San Diego are among those affected. Advisories typically discourage beachgoers from going in the water because the bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness, rashes, and nausea.

Rumpler emphasized the importance of investing in water and sewer systems to prevent fecal contamination in beaches. He stated that beaches are a shared resource and a treasure for families across the country. Severe weather and suburban sprawl are other factors contributing to beach contamination, as they can overwhelm sewage systems and reduce the ecosystem's ability to absorb stormwater.

Even pristine beaches are not immune to this issue. For example, the Hawaii State Department of Health is warning of a high bacteria count at Kahaluu Beach Park on the Big Island. Many other beaches, from Crystal River, Florida, to Ogunquit, Maine, have advisories warning about water quality this week due to elevated levels of bacteria associated with fecal waste.

Rumpler based in Boston, encourages everyone to be aware of the potential risks and to check local beach advisories before planning a visit to the beach this summer. By investing in our water infrastructure, we can protect our beaches and ensure they remain safe and enjoyable for all.

Beachgoers might encounter fecal pollution during their swim over the Labor Day weekend along the coasts of the United States.