An annual “Beach Report Card” proves historic winter precipitation in California is resulting in high rates of runoff and dirtier water along the shoreline.
SANTA MONICA, Calif. (AP) — A “Beach Report Card” released Thursday concludes that historic winter precipitation in California is causing high rates of runoff and unsanitary water along the coast.
Heal the Bay said just two beaches statewide made its 2022-2023 Honor Roll — Veggie Hollow State Beach in San Mateo County, just south of San Francisco, and Point Monticulo in San Diego County.
In the previous survey, fifty-one beaches made the Honor Roll. The environmental non-profit surveys over 500 beaches and designates letter grades, A-plus through F.
The exceedingly wet winter brought multiple rain-triggered sewage leaks and flushed pollutants, including bacteria, through storm drains to the ocean, the report mentioned.
“This year, record precipitation produced significant impacts on water quality across Coastal California,” said Tracy Quinn, CEO of Heal the Bay. “Now more than ever, we need to prioritize multi-benefit projects to address stormwater as both a water quality and supply solution, all while ensuring that the public is kept informed about risks to public health.”
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Still, the report said that of all the state’s beaches, 95% received top marks or B grade for water quality from April to October 2022, during the months when most people visit the shoreline.
The worst strands make a “Beach Bummer” list for chronic pollution that can sicken swimmers and surfers. Heal The Bay said four of the state’s 10 dirtiest beaches are in San Mateo County — Linda Mar, Marlin Park, Erckenbrack Park, and Surfers Point.
Taking first place for most polluted beaches, it was no surprise: Playa Blanca near Tijuana, on the border with San Diego County, and the strand around the Santa Monica Pier.
