Splashing Into Trouble: Fecal Bacteria Threatens US Beaches Ahead Of Labor Day Weekend

Last Updated:August 30, 2025, 20:43 IST

The main reason behind this is outdated water and sewer systems that allow sewage contamination to reach popular swimming areas.

A picture of beach used for representation

Several Americans are planning to hit the beach this Labor Day weekend; however, they may face a disappointing reality: unsafe swimming conditions due to high levels of fecal contamination. Beaches, including Crystal River, Florida, Ogunquit, Maine, among others, have warned against the elevated bacteria levels linked to sewage. The contamination can cause issues like gastrointestinal illness, rashes, and nausea.

According to a report by Associated Press, popular spots like Keyes Memorial Beach in Hyannis, Massachusetts, Benjamin’s Beach on Long Island, and even beaches in Hawaii have seen closures or warnings. Nearly two-thirds of beaches nationwide faced unsafe bacteria levels at least once this year, according to Environment America.

It was also discovered that 84 per cent of Gulf Coast beaches exceeded safety standards, followed by 79 per cent of West Coast beaches. In total, over 450 beaches were unsafe for swimming on 25 per cent of the tested days.

According to John Rumpler, clean water director and senior attorney with Environment America, the main reason behind this is outdated water and sewer systems that allow sewage contamination to reach popular swimming areas.

“These beaches are a treasure for families across New England and across the country. They are a shared resource," said Rumpler, who is based in Boston.

“We need to make the investment to make sure that literally our own human waste doesn’t wind up in the places where we are swimming."

However, despite the warning, people are still planning to hit the beaches.

“I really don’t expect to be in any kind of danger of fecal contamination," said Oryshkevych, a retired dentist.

Dana West, a federal employee at Rehoboth Beach, recalled an incident that took place earlier this year when a dozen people in his vacation group developed gastrointestinal problems.

“But generally, I have no concerns about the level of fecal and bacterial matter," said West while admiring Rehoboth’s shore. “I assume the local authorities will tell us if there are higher levels than normal."

However, some local beaches, including Rehoboth Bay and Dewey Beach, were under advisories this week. Fecal bacteria levels that exceed EPA standards can cause illness in 32 out of every 1,000 swimmers.

In North Carolina, five beaches issued warnings in late August due to high fecal bacteria, exacerbated by Hurricane Erin and heavy rain.

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