To minimize the risk of illness from contaminated water, beaches are required to be tested for “indicator” bacteria ― bacteria that indicate the presence of fecal contamination. Marine water must be tested for Enterococci bacteria, while freshwater can be tested for Enterococci or E. coli.
The BOH oversees all water testing within its jurisdiction at approved sampling locations. Operators of semi-public beaches pay for their own sample collection and analysis.
Beaches must be sampled within 5 days prior to opening and at least weekly thereafter during operation.