Beach Water Testing

Beach Water Testing will resume on May 28, 2025.

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Weekly Beach Sampling Data

The Health Unit monitors beach water quality at eight public beaches once a week on Wednesdays, from May to August to test for bacteria (E.coli) levels to determine if the water is safe for swimming.

You can also check for results by calling our Beach Hotline at 519-258-2146 ext. 1490.


Predictive Modeling

This year, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is introducing the use of a predictive model to enhance our current beach monitoring program. 

This program will run on weekdays (except holidays) from May to August. The model uses a mathematical equation to predict the bacteria (E.coli) levels in the beach water. It considers environmental factors such as beach water clarity and weather conditions to generate a predicted result. The results can help you make an informed decision on whether to go into the water when visiting one of the participating beaches on the weekdays.

Learn more about Predictive Modeling


Notes

Routine beach water sampling results will take precedence over predictive modeling results and will determine beach closures. If bacterial count warrants closing the beach, modeling results will be displayed as "Beach Closed".

Note: The bacterial counts for routine beach sampling and the predicted results listed reflect the conditions at the time of sampling. Water quality can change from day to day depending on the weather conditions and lake levels. Although the beach might be open, we recommend not swimming if there was a recent heavy rainfall (at least 48 hours), if the water is cloudy, or if you are unable to see your feet when in the water.

For more information, call us at 519-258-2146 ext. 4475 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday to speak with a Public Health Inspector.

Learn more about beach water quality monitoring and beach safety, predictive modeling program, or blue-green algae.