Ocean water quality results for samples collected this week indicate ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling locations failed to meet State standards for bacteria:
- Rincon Beach at Creek
- Faria County Park Beach
- Surfer’s Point at Seaside
Warning signs are currently posted and contact with ocean water should be avoided for a minimum of 50 yards on either side of each posted sign. Warning signs will remain posted until ocean water quality meets State standards. Any items that may have come in contact with ocean water should be avoided. If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with soap and water.
As a result of current storm and predicted rainfall the public is advised to avoid body contact with all storm water runoff and ocean water at all Ventura County beaches.
Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County. In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.
There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water. In addition, storm water runoff can transport physical hazards such as partially submerged tree limbs and logs into the ocean that could result in serious physical injury. Contact with this runoff water will result in an increased risk to human health and should be avoided for at least 72 hours after all rainfall activity has ended.This advisory will remain in effect for 72 hours (3 days) after all rainfall has ended.
Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program staff will continue with weekly bacteriological sampling of Ventura County beaches. Bacteriological sample results for specific beaches are also available on the Environmental Health Division hotline (recorded information), 805/662-6555, and on the Division’s Web page at:
www.vcrma.org/ocean–water–quality–monitoring–program
