The City of Bellingham is actively investigating possible sources of elevated fecal coliform bacteria levels detected in some of the marine stormwater outfalls, including those in the southern end of Boulevard Park. We are doing additional sampling, monitoring and source tracing to help identify sources and better understand the current situation.
“Protecting public health and safety is our top priority, and clean water is essential for that,” said Eric Johnston, City of Bellingham Public Works Director. “We take all reports of possible contamination seriously. Our team of scientists, engineers, and technicians are dedicated to tracking down and eliminating sources of pollution in our waterways.”
In addition to our routine pollution prevention and response, City staff are using field sampling, infrastructure review, business outreach and permit review to identify potential sources of the bacteria being washed into the stormwater pipes from the surrounding area. No pollution source has been identified yet, but bacteria in stormwater often comes from multiple small sources, such as pet waste, wildlife droppings, and yard debris.
Bellingham has an extensive stormwater program that works to prevent potential sources of pollution and clean up pollution when it’s found, to protect and restore our water and comply with a national pollution permit. But our commitment goes beyond regulations. We also support our community members and businesses through education and other programs to help them be part of the solution.
“We’re committed to collaborating with residents, community groups, and other agencies to safeguard and improve water quality,” added Johnston. “This ensures safe drinking water, healthy recreational opportunities in our bays and lakes, and a thriving marine habitat for generations to come.”
The current no-contact warning signs at Taylor Dock will be in place until bacteria levels have decreased, at which point recreational access can resume. Additional information and updates are available on the Department of Ecology webpage.
Community members can help reduce bacteria pollution by promptly disposing of pet waste and reporting any suspected sources of pollution to the City’s stormwater hotline at 360-778-7979 or online at cob.org/fix.
For more information about our stormwater outfall monitoring, please visit our webpage about how we’re addressing stormwater in Bellingham Bay.
