Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today the allocation of $9.75 million in grant funding to support coastal and Great Lakes communities in their efforts to protect beachgoers' health. The funds will aid states, Tribes, and territories in conducting water quality monitoring and public notification programs for beaches.
"Every summer Americans flock to oceanside and Great Lakes beaches to enjoy recreation time with family and friends, making these important destinations as well as economic and tourism engines for our economy," said Acting EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. "Protecting water quality at beaches is a priority for EPA and with these grants we are helping our state, Tribal, and local partners monitor water quality to ensure it is safe for residents and visitors."
Under the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act, the EPA awards grants to eligible state, Tribal, and territorial applicants. These grants help local government partners monitor water quality at coastal and Great Lakes beaches. Agencies notify the public by posting beach advisories or closings when bacteria levels are too high for safe swimming.
Since 2001, nearly $230 million has been awarded through BEACH Act grants by the EPA. These funds have been used to test beach waters for illness-causing bacteria, identify pollution sources, and notify the public of potential hazards. For 2024 grant allocations, three factors were considered: the length of the beach season, the number of miles of shoreline, and the populations of coastal counties.
To qualify for BEACH Act grants, states, Tribes, and territories must have coastal or Great Lakes recreational waters adjacent to public access points. They must also maintain a water quality standards program with EPA-approved numeric recreational water quality standards for coastal waters. Additionally, eligible entities must meet 11 performance criteria related to monitoring, assessment, and notification components of their beach programs.
In Region 10 specifically:
- Alaska will receive $161,029
- Oregon will receive $235,103
- Washington will receive $280,192
- Swinomish Indian Tribal Community will receive $53,676
For more information on BEACH Act grants or specific beach advisories or closures in your area please visit relevant state or Tribal websites.
