Healthy Beaches Program

Environmental Health monitors seven public, saltwater beaches in Manatee County for contamination by bacteria on a bi-weekly basis. Results and locations can be viewed at the State Website on Healthy Beaches.

Red Tide 

The waters off the coast of Manatee County are currently experiencing Red Tide conditions. Here is a link to the Florida Department of Health's informational page on Red Tide. 

https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins/red-tide.html.

"No-Swim" Advisories

When levels of bacteria at monitored beaches exceed the limits set by the state, Environmental Health will post a "No-Swim" Advisory.  Such an advisory means it is not recommended to enter the water due to bacterial contamination.  The advisory will be removed once bacteria have returned to a safe level.  Beaches with a "No-Swim" Advisory are still open for recreation on land, and other county beaches may not have a "No-Swim" Advisory.

Health Risks

Enteric bacteria (such as fecal coliform bacteria and enterococci) are a type of bacteria normally inhabiting the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of enteric bacteria in seawater is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife and human sewage. If enteric bacteria are present in high concentrations in recreational waters, they can pose risks to human health.  Bacteria may be ingested or enter the skin through a cut or sore if you enter contaminated water, and they may cause human disease, infections or rashes.  That is why it is important to follow "No-Swim" or other advisories if they are posted.