• June 27, 2012
• By Kerri Jansen

Results from a new study by the Natural Resources Defense Council show 2011 was one of the worst years for health-related beach closings in the study's 22-year history.

The number of beach closings and warnings reached the third-highest recorded level, often due to excessive bacteria levels indicating the presence of human or animal waste from stormwater runoff, according to the report.

U.S. beaches continue to experience significant water pollution, putting swimmers and local economies at risk, the study states. Stormwater runoff, including sanitary sewer overflows, caused 46% of the pollution, up from 36% last year, according to the report.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that the number of infections associated with recreational water use is rising. NRDC recommends creating "green" infrastructure like porous pavement and street plantings to combat hazardous runoff.

 

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