Minimizing Beach Contamination

When at the Beach

Do not allow diaper-age children or children who are not toilet-trained into public swimming areas without tight-fitting rubber or plastic pants that will contain fecal matter.
Change diapers frequently, always away from the water's edge, and in a restroom, if possible.
Dispose of diapers properly. Place them in trash receptacles or seal them in a plastic bag to carry out with you.
Do not encourage water fowl by feeding ducks, geese, seagulls, or other birds.
Take your children for frequent bathroom breaks.
Dispose of animal waste properly. When exercising your pet, collect and properly dispose of its waste. This helps to reduce the amount of animal waste that may be washed into the beach area from stormwater runoff.
Trash may attract wild fowl and other animals. Carry out all trash or dispose of it securely in trash receptacles.
Don't swim if you have diarrhea or feel like you may vomit.

Conserve water. Excess water use at home means more water that has to be processed by sewage treatment plants. This can lead to sewer overflows and raw sewage discharges into beach areas.
Use natural substances to fertilize lawns and gardens. For example, use compost made from natural products instead of chemical fertilizer. Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides whenever possible.
Maintain private septic systems. Keep your septic tank or aeration system in good working order. Have it pumped and serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. This will help prevent leaking and inadvertent discharge of treated or untreated sewage into the storm sewer – and ultimately into the beach area.

Properly dispose of boating wastes.
Empty sewage holding tanks and portable toilet waste in proper onshore sanitary facilities.
Regularly service boat engines to minimize discharged gasoline and motor oil.