As temperatures climb and Whatcom County residents make their way to local lakes, saltwater beaches, and tidal flats, the county's public health department is reminding everyone to take a few simple precautions before heading into the water. The message is timely: May 18 through 24 is Healthy and Safe Swimming Week nationally, and local conditions make the guidance especially relevant this year.
Whatcom County Health and Community Services is asking residents to check for swimming beach closures and shellfish harvest advisories before visiting any local beach. High levels of harmful bacteria such as E. coli can enter saltwater swimming beaches via stormwater runoff, especially following rain events. Swallowing or even touching contaminated water can cause illness in both people and pets.
Health officials identified several specific precautions worth following this season. Residents should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds before eating after being in or around sand and water, particularly if soap and water are not available. Hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol is an acceptable substitute. Swimmers should avoid unusually cloudy water, which can signal elevated bacteria levels, and should stay clear of any pipes or drainage outlets emptying near swimming areas.
Shellfish harvesting is a beloved tradition in Whatcom County, where residents dig clams and gather oysters from tidal beaches throughout the county. Before harvesting, residents are required to check current shellfish harvest advisories from the Washington State Department of Health biotoxin hotline. Shellfish can accumulate harmful algal toxins that are invisible to the eye and cannot be removed through cooking. Harvesting during a closure can result in serious illness.
The county also noted that a statewide drought declaration issued by the Washington Department of Ecology in April 2026 continues to affect Whatcom County. While drought conditions reduce the volume of stormwater runoff compared to wet years, they can also concentrate pollutants in lower water levels at some freshwater swimming areas. Lake swimmers should be aware that water quality can fluctuate with weather patterns throughout the summer.
Whatcom County's saltwater beaches, freshwater lakes, and tidal areas are among the county's most popular seasonal destinations. Areas like Lake Whatcom, Silver Lake, Lake Padden, and the saltwater beaches along Birch Bay and Lummi Bay draw large numbers of swimmers, kayakers, and families throughout the summer months. Staying informed about current advisories and closures protects both individuals and the broader community.
Up-to-date information on beach closures, shellfish harvest status, and water quality advisories is available through the Whatcom County Health and Community Services newsflash at whatcomcounty.us. Residents can also sign up for county health alerts to receive notifications when conditions change.
With Ski to Sea bringing tens of thousands of visitors to Bellingham and the race route running through much of the county this Sunday, it is a fitting moment to brush up on local outdoor recreation safety before the Memorial Day weekend crowds arrive.
