Beach Conditions

For Water Quality Testing at Binbrook Conservation Area
please visit Hamilton Public Health. 

About Swimming in Natural Bodies of Water

Please be advised that there are always risks associated with swimming in natural bodies of water

Natural bodies of water are great places to play, swim and cool off on a hot sunny day.

However, swimming in these areas is not risk-free. There is always a level of risk when swimming in a natural water body, whether it's on the shores of Lake Erie, jumping off a dock at a cottage or going to an NPCA beach.

Natural water bodies, such as rivers and reservoirs, are exposed to contamination from various sources. The conditions and quality of the water can change quickly due to a number of environmental factors. These factors can influence the level of bacteria in the water to the point where it increases the risk of getting sick.

Environmental factors that can cause an increase in bacteria levels

• Recent heavy rainfall (1 to 2 inches or 25 to 50 mm within 24 to 48 hours) has a significant impact on water quality. Run off from the rain washes bacteria from the shore, fields and streets into streams, rivers and lakes.
• Cloudy water (unable to see feet in waist-deep water) means the sand and silt has been stirred up. This can increase the levels of bacteria in the water.
• High wind can cause waves, and wave action can stir up the sand and silt, which can increase the levels of bacteria in the water.
• Large numbers of birds or other wildlife and their droppings can have a significant impact on water quality. Dead fish, algae/scum, or debris in the water can also increase the risk of illness or injury.

How you can prevent illness when swimming in a natural water body

• Never swallow the beach water, at any time, no matter how clear!
• After swimming or playing in the water or sand, wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer
• Always wash your hands thoroughly before eating, especially children, if you have been swimming or playing in the water or sand
• Bacteria levels tend to be higher in the warm wet sand on the shore

Help keep our beaches clean

There are several ways you can help keep our beaches clean and improve water quality conditions in our swimming areas. These include:

• Don't feed wildlife or birds.
• Don't use soaps, shampoos, or other bathing products in the water.
• Use appropriate washroom facilities.
• Place all garbage in designated bins, or take it with you.

Rainfall Data

Rainfall can cause fecal material from wildlife or pets to runoff into streams and reservoirs. It can also stir up the water creating cloudy conditions. When there is a significant rainfall (1 to 2 inches or 25 to 50 mm within 24 to 48 hours), it is advised to refrain from swimming for 24 to 48 hours, until clear conditions occur again.

Our website contains information about precipitation at beaches within the watershed, and we also publish Cumulative Precipitation Rates across the Niagara Peninsula Watershed. You can also access culumative precipitation rates for the following locations:

• Binbrook Conservation Area
• Chippawa Creek Conservation Area
• Long Beach Conservation Area

Water Quality Monitoring

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority conducts water quality sampling for bacterial (E.coli) counts once every two weeks beginning one week prior to Victoria Day through the week after Labour Day at three (3) conservation area beaches in three (3) NPCA Conservation Areas throughout the watershed.

While this data is not useful in identifying public health risk when swimming in natural water bodies, it is used to determine long term trends in the water quality at our swimming areas over time. The table below will be updated bi-weekly, showing the most recent sampling data available.

IMPORTANT WATER SAFETY REMINDERS:

The NPCA reminds all conservation area visitors that there are risks associated with activities in and near to water including swimming, boating and paddlesports, and fishing among others. Please use caution and enjoy conservation areas responsibly.

Swimming Safety Tips

• Stay within arms' reach of children and non-swimmers
• Parents/guardians must provide supervision of children at all times while swimming
• Supervision of non-swimmers is important
• Always swim with a partner, do not enter the water alone or without telling someone where you are going
• Alcohol is not permitted in day-use conservation areas - Alcohol and water activities don't mix
• Don't drink and swim. Don't drink and operate a boat or other watercraft
• Always wear a lifejacket when you are in a boat or other watercraft
• Swimming lessons are recommended
• Swim in lifeguarded or supervised areas

Boating and Paddlesport Safety Tips

• Wear a lifejacket at all times
• Lifejackets are not one size fits all - check for proper fit before heading out on the water
• Familiarize yourself with the body of water you are exploring before heading out, carry a map
• Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
• Alcohol is not permitted in day-use conservation areas - Alcohol and water activities don't mix
• Do not drink and operate your boat or watercraft
• Carry a safety kit at all times, including a cell phone
• Always check the weather, wave and wind conditions before heading out

For more information on how to stay safe in the water, please visit: https://www.lifesavingsociety.com/

What is Blue-Green Algae? 

Blue-Green Algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are a group of photosynthetic bacteria found naturally in aquatic environments. These microorganisms can grow rapidly under certain conditions, leading to what is known as an algae bloom. 

Why is it a Concern? 

Blue-Green Algae blooms can produce toxins harmful to humans, pets, and wildlife. These toxins can cause health issues such as skin irritation, gastrointestinal illnesses, and, in severe cases, liver damage. Additionally, large blooms can negatively impact water quality, aquatic life, and recreational activities. 

Identifying Blue-Green Algae 

Blue-Green Algae blooms can vary in appearance but often look like: 

• Pea soup or spilled paint on the water's surface. 
• Green, blue-green, or turquoise scum or mats. 
• Small grass clippings floating in the water. 

If you suspect the presence of Blue-Green Algae, avoid contact with the water and report it to the local health unit or environmental authority. 

Causes of Blue-Green Algae Blooms 

Several factors can contribute to the growth of Blue-Green Algae, including: 

• Warm water temperatures. 
• Excess nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, from agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial discharges. 
• Calm water conditions that allow algae to accumulate. 

Preventing Blue-Green Algae Blooms 

• Preventing Blue-Green Algae blooms involves managing nutrient inputs and promoting practices that reduce runoff. Here are some tips: 
• Use phosphate-free detergents and fertilizers. 
• Maintain natural vegetation along shorelines to reduce runoff. 
• Properly dispose of pet waste to prevent it from entering water bodies. 
• Support agricultural practices that minimize fertilizer runoff. 

What to Do If You Encounter Blue-Green Algae 

• Avoid contact: Do not swim, wade, or engage in water sports in affected areas. 
• Keep pets and livestock away: Animals are also at risk from harmful algae toxins. 
• Follow advisories: Heed local health advisories and closures related to Blue-Green Algae. 
• Report sightings: Notify local health or environmental authorities if you see a suspected bloom. 

Monitoring and Reporting 

For the most current information and updates on Blue-Green Algae, please visit the City of Hamilton and Niagara Region websites. 

If you think you see a bloom developing, please contact us with pictures and/or a description of any suspected blooms. In your description, please provide as much information as possible about the location of the suspected bloom. 

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) records the occurrence of Blue-Green Algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in Ontario. You can report the occurrence by calling the Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060. For more information on Blue-Green Algae, please refer to the
MECP Blue-Green Algae webpage. 

Beach Closures

A beach closure (rarely issued) prohibits swimming due to a chemical or sewage spill, or the presence of Blue-green Algae.

Local Public Health Unit Contact Information

For health-related questions, please contact:

• For Binbrook Conservation Area, please contact City of Hamilton Public Health  at publichealth@hamilton.ca or 905-546-2489.
• For Chippawa Creek and Long Beach Conservation Areas, please contact Niagara Public Health at 905-688-3762 or 1-800-263-7248.