The Florida Healthy Beaches Program was established in August 2000. This program works to protect the public’s health by monitoring bacteriological water quality of Escambia County beaches, bays, and bayous, and conducts bi-weekly water sampling from March to October.
The sampling process entails:
- Collection of 100 ml sample and taken to a NELAC-certified lab for analysis
- Sample is analyzed for Enterococci bacteria (typically found in the gut of warm-blooded animals)
Enterococci are an enteric bacteria that inhabits the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of enteric bacteria is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage. High concentrations of enteric bacteria in recreational waters can cause infections or diseases if ingested while swimming or swimming with a cut.
Beach Water Quality
View water quality sampling data reports from the Florida Department of Health’s Healthy Beaches Program.
Florida’s Water Quality
Protecting Florida Together map delivers statewide water quality information for blue-green algae and red tide (harmful algal blooms). You can sign-up to receive notifications when water quality changes in your area.
Water Quality Categories
- Good = 0-35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water
- Moderate = 36-70 enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water
- Poor = 71 or greater enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water
A result of 71 or greater may require a re-sampling of the location before issuance of an advisory. A resample is conducted if result exceeds the recommended thresholds. If the resample result still exceeds the threshold then an advisory sign is posted. The advisory sign states that swimming or other water contact activities are not recommended due to high bacterial levels.