Jan. 5, 2024

We monitor water quality in 66 Kitsap County streams to prevent pollution and protect public health

View our interactive Water Quality Report to learn more about our pollution prevention work and the health of surface waters in your neighborhood. 

KITSAP COUNTY, WA — What do you think of when you think of Kitsap County? Chances are you think of water. From the Sound to Hood Canal, from streams to lakes, our county is blessed with an abundance of natural waterbodies.  With nearly 300,000 of us living, working, and recreating in our peninsula and island communities, it's vital to keep waterways clean and healthy. That's where Kitsap Public Health's Water Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) team plays an important role.

Our PIC Program continuously monitors for fecal pollution in our county's surface waters to prevent waterborne illnesses, protect our waterways, and safeguard shellfish beds. When bacteria hotspots are found, we work with community members and organizations to fix issues and prevent further pollution. We also publish health advisories when needed to alert the public to potential health risks. 

This work is summarized in a yearly Kitsap Water Quality report, which presents program highlights and stream-by-stream monitoring results. Our interactive 2023 Water Quality Report is now available to view!

This year's report features:

• Water Pollution Identification and Correction (PIC) program highlights
• A PIC team spotlight 
• Stream advisories (there are no advisories in effect for 2024!)
• A review of swimming beach advisories
• Common sources of fecal pollution and pollution prevention tips

Our water quality monitoring work is made possible by our partners at Clean Water Kitsap, a multi-agency partnership that receives funding from county stormwater fees.

Clean Water Kitsap protects people, property and natural resources by reducing flooding and stormwater runoff, and preventing stormwater pollution.

CONTACT:

Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer
Kitsap Public Health District
360-728-2330 - office | (360) 728-2235 - main
pio@kitsappublichealth.org | kitsappublichealth.org