Are beaches full of fecal matter?

But before you do, you should be aware that some of these beaches can be mistaken for a public toilet by a lab test. According to a damning new report from Environment America, over half of all U.S. beaches are contaminated with poop. Yep, you read that right.



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Beaches, like swimming pools, can be contaminated with poop, but that doesn't mean you have to give up on your summer plans. But, you should consider checking the beach's water quality levels before going for a swim.

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Some cities also have joint sewer and stormwater systems that can overflow—this leads to “a mixture of raw, untreated sewage and stormwater” that can sometimes flow onto recreational beaches, said Rumpler. Runoff water from large farms can sometimes also contaminate beaches, he added, as can feces from wildlife.

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55% of American beaches have unsafe levels of fecal contamination. WASHINGTON (TND) — More than half of all beaches in America had at least one day in 2022 when the water tested positive for potentially unsafe levels of fecal contamination, according to the advocacy group Environment America.

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Distance from sediment sources: Beaches located far from major sediment sources, such as rivers or coastal erosion, tend to have clearer water. Sediments suspended in the water, including particles like sand, silt, or clay, can decrease water clarity and make it appear murky.

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As water flows from land to coastal waters, it is often contaminated by untreated sewage from boats, pets, failing septic systems, fertilizers, and spills from hazardous substances. High levels of bacteria and other chemicals in the water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses in those who swim directly in the water.

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