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EPA Takes to the Sea and Air to Protect East Coast Beaches Memorial Day Marks the Start of Summer-long Survey

Release Date: 5/25/2000
Contact Information: Bonnie Smith (215)814-5543/Bonnie Lomax (215) 814-5542

Bonnie Smith, 215-814-5543 & Bonnie Lomax, 215-814-5542

PHILADELPHIA -- An EPA research vessel will leave Cape May, New Jersey on May 30, on a mission to protect East Coast beaches. This begins the Environmental Protection Agency’s annual summer-long survey of coastal waters from New Jersey to North Carolina. EPA has monitored coastal water quality since mid-1980's.

Using a small plane for aerial surveillance and research boats for taking water samples, scientists will look for algal blooms, floating trash, oil slicks, dead fish, and other indications of environmental problems. Scientists will count the number of dolphins and whales they see -- indicators of healthy water quality.

Monitoring efforts such as these over the past 10 years have shown dramatic improvements in water quality in the area, evidenced by an increase in the clarity of the water and a decrease in the amount of algae observed.

“Each year, thousands of people visit East Coast beaches. Visitors can feel more secure knowing that EPA is on the case, making sure that beaches are safe and clean,” said Bradley Campbell, mid-Atlantic regional administrator.

Visit EPA’s Beach Watch web site at https://www.epa.gov/ost/beaches/ for more information on beaches. The site explains the sources and types of ocean pollution and ways citizens can get involved in protecting their beaches. It even provides a Beachgoer’s Guide that can be downloaded before heading to the shore.


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