News

Bacterial barrage washes ashore – Tests imminent for E. coli sources

8/27/15

Humboldt Baykeeper and Pacific Watershed Associates are poised for genetic tests and analysis to pinpoint the sources of the fecal bacterium E. coli in six Humboldt waterways deemed “impaired” by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Corrective action hinges on the results of the new tests. They are aimed at finding the precise sources of the pollutant, although E. coli is known to originate in the guts of warm blooded animals (humans, livestock, dogs, horses, birds, raccoons etc.). Other sources are faulty private septic systems, leaking municipal sewer lines and transient encampments. The bacteria can cause humans severe gastrointestinal distress.

Lawsuit: Clean Water Act rule change to impact local, national waters

Organizations say modifications affect local, national waterways

8/8/15

A group of environmental organizations, including Humboldt Baykeeper, have filed a lawsuit challenging proposed changes to the federal Clean Water Act that they claim would threaten waterways across the nation and locally that were once protected under the act.

EPA Identifies Local Impaired Waterways

Six rivers, creeks listed for fecal contamination

7/10/15

Six local waterways have been officially recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as being impaired by fecal bacteria, thus beginning what may be a lengthy assessment to identify and mitigate the sources of pollution.

Clam Beach Makes State ‘Bummer’ List; Other Humboldt stretches of sand get A’s  

6/18/15

   For the second year running, a beach near McKinleyville has been named to a water quality watchdog’s list of the worst beaches in the state.

  According to the annual Beach Report Card compiled by Heal the Bay, a Southern California-based advocacy group that grades beaches along the West Coast, Humboldt County’s Clam Beach landed the No. 3 spot on the list, this year slipping from a “D” grade to an “F.”

Humboldt Rowing Association Looks to Promote Rowing and Conservation

5/29/15

As the 14th annual National Learn to Row Day on June 6 draws near, rowing communities across the country are hosting events to welcome new athletes to the sport of rowing. The Humboldt Bay Rowing Association in Eureka, Calif., has partnered with the Humboldt BayKeeper to not only promote rowing, but also to encourage conservation and clean water.