The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching it’s summertime environmental monitoring of coastline areas to safeguard beaches and popular tourist spots to ensure the health and safety of those who use them. The agency will employ helicopter surveillance to check for floating debris as well as water sampling to ensure contaminants and toxins are not present at dangerous levels. This year, as a result of Hurricane Sandy, particular attention will be paid in the New York and New Jersey area to monitor water quality levels and industrial debris that continues to wash onto the shoreline.

The EPA will be working with both state and local environmental agencies and monitoring of the designated locations takes place seven days a week. The agency will also be assessing the potential for toxins and fecal contamination in shellfish beds and coastal waters that are popular for fishing and recreation.

Beaches and the areas surrounding them will also be monitored to ensure that trash and other waste materials are properly disposed of and not being allowed to enter the water. Harbor areas are also included in this category as environmental officials will be monitoring fishing and recreational boats for compliance with safety and hazardous wastes regulations.

WasteCare Wants You to Remember: If your business is involved with coastal recreation and leisure activities, you want to make sure that you have a plan in place for handling your waste, recycling, and any hazardous materials such as paint, oil, and pesticides. It’s better to be aware of the regulations and follow them then to be inspected and fined for violations. When you go green you’ll not only save some “green” but you’ll keep your business out of hot water!