Environmental Assessment > BEACH Home > Science > Sampling Process

What is the Sampling Process?

We monitor our beaches weekly from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We collect three samples across the beach at knee depth using sterile techniques. We take an average of the three samples because, due to the nature of bacteria, results are highly variable, and we want to ensure that we are accurately representing the actual risk at the beach.

The samples are then delivered to a state-accredited laboratory for analysis.  Depending on the method used, the results are available within 24-36 hours.

For more information please see our Program Guidance and Quality Assurance Project Plan.