Health Department Issues a Swim Advisory for Orange Beach Waterfront Park

OBA Staff • May 7, 2025

Storm runoff and septic issues may be to blame

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has issued a public swimming advisory after two water tests showed poor quality. Health officials warn that swimming in the affected area may increase the risk of illness. The advisory will stay in place until bacteria levels drop below federal safety standards. ADPH is working with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) to monitor the situation.

The water samples revealed bacteria levels above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) threshold of 104 enterococcus organisms per 100 milliliters. Testing and monitoring will continue until the water is deemed safe for swimming again.

This advisory is part of a routine water monitoring program funded by the EPA’s BEACH Act. ADPH and ADEM collect samples from 25 popular swimming sites along Alabama’s coast. These are checked for enterococci bacteria, which can indicate the presence of other harmful germs.

Enterococcus bacteria are found in the intestines of humans and animals. Their presence in water may result from storm runoff, faulty septic systems, or agricultural waste. Heavy rain can raise bacteria levels, but officials report no known sewage spills at this time.

When bacteria levels exceed EPA limits, a second test is performed. If it confirms unsafe conditions, ADPH alerts the public through local media and websites. Swimmers are advised to stay out of the water until further notice.

For more information about the advisory status, visit ADEM’s Website at ADEM/ADPH Coastal Alabama Beach Monitoring Program

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