LA county beaches most unhealthful
Los Angeles County swimming beaches this summer reportedly contained the highest levels of bacteria measured during the last five years in California.
High levels of bacterial contamination were reported at such popular areas as Surfrider Beach in Malibu, Cabrillo Beach at San Pedro Bay, Will Rogers state beaches, Paradise Cove and near Santa Monica and Redondo Beach.
The bacteria presents a problem for swimmers and surfers. One surfer told the Los Angeles Times: "It's like going to Mexico. You might get sick, or you might not."
Los Angeles County faces a July 31 state deadline to make waters healthful for swimming every day during the summer or face hefty fines.
The unhealthful conditions are blamed on multiple sources, including sewer spills, pet waste, fertilizer, and oil and other pollutants washing off lawns and pavement and entering waterways, the Times said.
Copyright 2005 by United Press International
