Beachgoers Beware: Fecal Bacteria Threatens Popular Coastal Destinations
A study conducted by Environment America's "Safe for Swimming" report revealed that nearly all tested beaches in Oregon had dangerous levels of fecal matter in the water. Out of the 21 Oregon beaches tested, 86% were found to have unsafe levels of feces at least one day during the tests, and 81% were contaminated on more than 25% of testing days. This is significantly higher than the nationwide average of 55% for fecal contamination in the water. Alaska and Hawaii had the lowest contamination rates, with only 24% of water containing feces.