INFORMATION Water Quality for Beaches

INFORMATION Water Quality for Beaches

Monitoring

Many local governments monitor their beaches for physical hazards and sources of contamination. Beach water samples are collected during the bathing season to monitor the quality of the water and compare the results with the "Guidelines for Recreational Quality". We recommend that beach operators have a Beach Safety Plan in place so they can respond quickly to extreme weather events and other problems. This an include posting warning signs if beach conditions are unsatisfactory. Read our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.

Beach Advisories

Swimming advisories are issued if it is identified that the water is not suitable for recreational use. Users are advised to refrain from activities in which a person’s whole body and face are frequently immersed in the water (i.e. swimming).
 
Beach closures are issued if it is identified that a beach or body of water poses a serious risk to the health and safety of recreational water users. Users are advised to avoid any contact with the beach and recreational water area (i.e. boating, paddling, playing in the wet sand) (Click on Result Icon to view.)

Sampling

Water samples are tested for E. coli bacteria as this bacteria is commonly found in feces of warm blooded animals (including humans) and consuming this bacteria may cause illness.

The Town of Osoyoos submits beach water samples once a week to CARO Analytical Services (Kelowna).  The results from CARO Analytical Services are then forwarded to Interior Health.

Helpful Links

Interior Health Beach Advisory
https://www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/InspectionReports/Pages/WaterNotifications.aspx

Interior Health Air Quality
https://www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/AirQuality/Pages/default.aspx

Interior Health Emergency Information
https://www.interiorhealth.ca/YourEnvironment/Emergency/Pages/default.aspx

Contact Information