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Orange County Sees Sharp Decrease in Sewage Spills

Huntington Beach demonstrates excellent water quality and beach safety.

News Summary

In a promising report, Orange County has recorded a significant decrease in beach closures due to sewage spills, remaining below the 38-year average for the 13th consecutive year. The OC Health Care Agency reported 71 sewage spills last year, marking a notable reduction from the long-term average of 178 spills. Improvements in sewer system management have played a key role in enhancing beach safety. However, warnings for excess bacteria increased, with certain beaches experiencing Beach Mile Days. Residents are advised to avoid contact with ocean water in affected areas until conditions improve.

Huntington Beach, California – Orange County has reported a significant decrease in beach closures due to sewage spills, marking the 13th consecutive year that these closures have remained below the 38-year average. According to the latest report from the OC Health Care Agency, the county recorded 71 sewage spills in the previous year. This figure is a substantial reduction compared to the long-term average of 178 spills per year.

Only 4% of those sewage spills resulted in closures of ocean access, indicating a successful trend in managing beach safety. The primary cause of these spills has been identified as blocked pipelines, which have been responsible for 61% of beach closures since 1999. The ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation of aging sewer systems have contributed to the decrease in incidents, as wastewater collection agencies have adopted effective Sewer System Management Plans that include routine inspections and repairs.

Over the past ten years, the rate of sewage spills has declined noticeably, and improvements in infrastructure have played a crucial role in this positive trend. However, it is important to note that the warning for excess bacteria present in the water, referred to as Beach Mile Days, increased by 28 days last year. Historically, from 2000 to 2012, the average annual Beach Mile Days was 205. In contrast, the past 12 years saw the average drop significantly, resulting in only 40 Beach Mile Days per year.

Some beaches, including Bolsa Chica Beach, Crystal Cove State Beach, and Capistrano County Beach, reported no Beach Mile Days from April 1 to Halloween last year. Several renowned beaches such as Seal Beach, Huntington City Beach, and Newport Beach demonstrated excellent bacteriological water quality during this time. In contrast, Doheny State Beach recorded the highest bacteria levels, resulting in 11.3 Beach Mile Days, while Poche County Beach had four Beach Mile Days recorded.

In a recent incident, approximately 4,000 gallons of sewage spilled into the ocean due to a blockage involving roots and grease in a sewer line in Costa Mesa. As a result, water access from the Talbert Channel outfall at Huntington State Beach to Grant Street in Newport Beach has been temporarily closed. Recovery teams managed to extract roughly 3,000 gallons of sewage, leaving an estimated 1,000 gallons still within the line.

The affected area remains off-limits for swimming, surfing, and diving activities until follow-up water quality tests indicate safe conditions. The Orange County Health Care Agency advises residents and beachgoers to avoid all contact with ocean water in the specified locations until the area is deemed safe for recreation.

For ongoing updates and further information regarding water quality and beach access, individuals are encouraged to visit OCBeachinfo.com or contact the agency directly at (714) 433-6400.