Beach Water Quality in Hamilton

Hamilton Public Health Services monitors the recreational water quality at public beaches each year for levels of E. coli bacteria and Blue-Green Algae (cyanobacteria).  These beaches are monitored from the Victoria Day long weekend in May to the Labour Day long weekend in September.

Beach water quality testing

We monitor beaches in accordance with the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's Beach Management Protocol, 2014 under the Ontario Public Health Standards.  The protocol requires that we take water samples at the beaches listed above and test for E.coli at least once a week during the swimming season – Victoria Day to Labour Day. 

Beach water quality test results

High numbers of E. coli in the water at public beaches indicates contamination with feces and the potential presence of other harmful microorganisms in the water. The provincial standard is 100 E. coli bacteria cells per 100 ml of water or 100 colony forming units per 100 ml.  

E. coli concentrations at or above the standard could cause an increased risk of infection.  Swimming in these waters could cause infections in ears, eyes, nose, throat and skin as well as cause diarrhea if the water is ingested.  

Current beach water quality test results

Beach monitoring reports

Hamilton Public Health Services (PHS) provide an annual update report regarding recreational water quality monitoring at Hamilton’s public beaches and the activities undertaken by stakeholders to improve the water quality at these beaches.

Contact us

For more information:

• Phone the Safe Water Hotline: 905-546-2189
• Email: publichealth@hamilton.ca