Public Health monitors the water quality of lakes, rivers and other recreational beaches to make sure they are safe for swimming and recreation. Links to water sampling results are posted below.  Because water sampling results may be up to two weeks old, they may not reflect current water quality conditions.  Therefore, lake users are asked to always take precautions such as not swallowing water, exposing cuts or sores to water, or entering water that appears scummy.

What beaches are open for swimming?

Vancouver Lake - currently OPEN  

• Vancouver Lake E.coli monitoring results (PDF) - The latest sample results show no violations of EPA standards for swimming beaches.
• Blue-green algae blooms in Vancouver Lake (PDF) - The latest sample results show no violations of EPA standards for swimming beaches.
• The Vancouver Lake Watershed Partnership, formed in 2004, is committed to improving water quality at Vancouver Lake.  For more information, visit http://www.ci.vancouver.wa.us/PublicWorks/vancouverlake/index.htm  
• CVTV video of Vancouver Lake

Public Health tests the lake water every two weeks starting in May until of each year.  Our department notifies the public if the water is unsafe for recreation.

Contact: Christine Webster
Christine.Webster@clark.wa.gov
(360) 397-8428 ext. 7275

Battle Ground Lake - currently OPEN

• Battle Ground Lake E.coli water monitoring results (PDF) - The latest sample results show no violations of EPA standards for swimming beaches. 

Washington State Department of Parks monitors the lake water at Battle Ground Lake State Park beginning the week of June 21 and  every two weeks throughout the summer.

Contact: Jim Presser
Battle Ground State Park
Battle.ground@parks.wa.gov
(360) 687-4621

Why is monitoring necessary?
Bacteria and small organisms that live in untreated water can be harmful to your health. These include: 

• E.coli bacteria is the most common cause of diarrhea in humans. It causes watery diarrhea, with cramps and frequently a low fever.
  
• Blue-green algae is a health hazard when species that produce toxins reach extreme proportions in the water. Toxins can disrupt muscle functions, cause skin irritations, diarrhea and vomiting and harm your liver. For more information about blue-green algae visit the World Health Organization Web site. Washington state also has information about toxic algae (PDF).