We work to improve water quality in Washington's marine environments. Our scientists study marine water, sediments, and the creatures that live there, observing and reporting on changing conditions. We keep people safe by studying saltwater-coastline stability and monitoring harmful bacteria that can make swimmers sick. By testing water, sediment, and fish tissue for toxic contaminants we can learn how these substances enter the water, and how they effect the environment.
Saltwater swimming safety
The Washington State BEACH Program samples saltwater swimming beaches for bacterial contamination from Memorial Day to Labor Day. When bacteria levels are too high, we will issue warnings to swimmers so they can avoid getting sick. Check our Coastal Atlas to see where it is safe to swim.
Monitoring and assessment of marine waters, sediment, and the coast
Our Coastal Atlas
- Shoreline photos from several different years can show how land and water use is changing.
- Coastal Atlas map application connects to data on our saltwater shorelines, as well as offering layers on ocean resources, jurisdictions, regulated waters, surface cover, and more.
- Find Swimming Beach Closures shows advisories and closures of some public beaches due to bacterial contamination.