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Did you Know?

Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL): A TMDL is the maximum amount of a pollutant that a water body can accept and still meet the water quality objectives designed to protect its uses.

The Santa Monica Bay currently has a TMDL for bacteria. The bacterial TMDL is a way to improve water quality within Santa Monica Bay and at the beaches.

Beach goers’ activities can lead to increased bacteria levels at the beach and in the ocean causing beach closures.


Bird Feeding


Birds are a major contributor of bacteria at the beach. Feeding birds creates waste and draws more birds to the area which in turn creates more waste and therefore more bacteria.

  • Refrain from feeding birds as it increases bacteria levels at the beach and in the ocean.


Waste Management

Proper disposal of wastes in garbage containers is a smart and easy way to prevent water pollution.

  • Disposing trash, refuse, food wastes, used diapers, and debris in appropriate containers decreases the availability of food for birds and other animals and keeps our beaches clean.



Pet Walking


Although dogs and other pets are generally not allowed on the beach and strand areas, many people still walk their animals in these areas. If you do walk your animals in these areas, please be responsible and pick up after your pet. Dog and other animal waste contain high levels of bacteria that can pollute our beaches and ocean.

  • Pick up after your pet and be sure to dispose of the waste properly by using a sealed plastic bag and depositing it in a suitable recepticle.