Want to check the water quality before heading out to a beach in Maryland? Then check out the Swim Guide!
The Swim Guide was introduced in 2012 and provides information about the water quality of local waterways. Dozens of Maryland beaches from Assateague Island National Seashore and Ocean City to local favorites Bay Ridge, Mayo Beach and Arundel on the Bay are included.
The Swim Guide app includes descriptions and photographs of beaches and employs a tool for citizens to report a pollution problem from their smartphone or through the website. Swim Guide works alongside over 80 affiliate organizations who conduct critical work in their local communities and watersheds, including West/Rhode Riverkeeper and the South River Federation in Anne Arundel County.Local water sampling results are now available, and will be updated weekly through the first week of September. Swim Guide is available from App Store, Google Play, or www.theswimguide.org.
While it is always advised to avoid going into the water for 48 hours after a rainfall of a 1/2 inch or more, the guide provides valuable information about specific sites, whether you are looking locally or want to check out a new vacation spot in another state, or even another country!