Swim beach monitoring
Planning a trip to a local lake? Be sure to check for water quality advisories first. Public Health monitors water quality at designated swim beaches throughout the summer to determine if the water is safe for swimming and recreation.
Routine water samples are collected from Vancouver Lake, Klineline Pond and Battle Ground Lake to test for bacterial contaminants. Water samples are also collected from waterbodies with harmful algal blooms to determine if toxins are present.
Advisories are posted if water is unsafe for swimming and recreation. Visit the Current advisories webpage for the latest information.
Staying safe in and around water
Temperatures may be warming up, but lakes and rivers in Southwest Washington are still cold, and water may be moving quickly. In spring and early summer, local lakes and rivers are still cold enough to shock and immobilize even the strongest swimmers.
Stay safe when swimming and recreating in water this summer by avoiding fast-flowing waters, supervising children anytime they are in or around water, wearing a life jacket, avoiding alcohol and marijuana use when swimming or boating, and swimming in designated areas only. Find more safety tips in our May news release.
Selling food at farmers markets and public events
Farmers markets and public events offer many opportunities for local food vendors to showcase and sell their products within the community. Food vendors have a variety of ways to offer new flavors, recipes and products to explore.
Clark County Public Health works with local food vendors on proper food handling practices. Before selling, serving, preparing or sampling food at public events or farmers markets, or coordinating food vendors for an event in Clark County, check out the frequently asked questions about temporary events webpage.
Free in-person and online workshops
Clark County’s Composter Recycler program is offering a series of free in-person and online workshops this spring. Participants will jumpstart their knowledge on topics including composting, green cleaning and sustainable lifestyle habits!
Pre-registration is required for all workshops. To register, visit the Composter Recycler webpage.
The Composter Recycler program educates the community about easy ways to reduce waste, increase recycling and create healthier homes.
PFAS in public and private drinking water
Per– and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a large group of human-made chemicals used for decades in many products, such as water-resistant clothing, non-stick cookware, and cleaning products. When PFAS are made, used, disposed of, or spilled near water sources, like rivers, aquifers or wells, the chemicals can get into drinking water.
Scientists are still studying how PFAS affect people’s health. Some PFAS can build up in people’s bodies and, over time, may cause harmful health effects. Visit the PFAS in drinking water webpage to learn more.
Public Health news
Wednesday, Jun 26, 2024
Thursday, Jun 13, 2024
Thursday, Jun 6, 2024
Public records request
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