Welcome to our new website

We’ve redesigned niagararegion.ca to make it easier to find what you need. We’re still putting on the finishing touches, so over the next few weeks you may notice:

  • Search is still learning. Some results may be incomplete or out of date. Try browsing by topic from the main menu.
  • Some links may not work. Old bookmarks and links may lead to pages that have moved.
  • Pages are still being updated. We’re reviewing content across the site and improving it as we go.

Beach water testing

Every year between May (Victoria Day) and September (Labour Day), we test over 19 public beaches for levels of E. coli bacteria. Test results are intended as general guidance. Residents are encouraged to consider the current weather before deciding to enter the water.

Beach water testing

Beach water testing results may not always be accurate as conditions can change due to:

  • Large number of swimmers
  • Wind and high waves
  • Large number of birds
  • Recent heavy rainfall
  • Cloudy water

Test results are intended as general guidance. Residents are encouraged to consider the current weather before deciding to enter the water.

Posted / closed beaches

Beaches are posted unsafe / closed when water tests show unacceptable levels of E. Coli bacteria.

The beach might also be unsafe because of floating debris, oil, excessive weed growth, bad odours and general turbidity.

Swimming in these waters could cause infections of the ear, eye, nose, throat and skin, as well as cause diarrhea if the water is ingested.

Weather Forecast: Lake Ontario · Lake Erie

Have a question?

Contact Water