Durham Region Health Department Beach Monitoring Program

The Durham Region Health Department conducts a Beach Monitoring Program throughout the summer to ensure the safety of local beaches for swimming. Bacteriological water tests are performed to assess water quality, specifically measuring E. coli levels. Water samples are collected and analyzed at the Public Health Ontario Laboratory in Peterborough. Results from these tests are communicated to the media by Friday of each week to inform the public about beach conditions. If E. coli levels exceed the provincial standard of 200 E. coli per 100 ml of water, the beach is posted as unsafe for swimming. Additionally, the Health Department advises the public to refrain from swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rainfall due to potential increases in bacteria levels from runoff. Real-time inspection results for Durham Region's public beaches can be accessed through the Health Department's online disclosure portal, Check&Go! Durham, which provides weekly updates on beach conditions.