Beach Water & Pools

Protecting Swimmers with Regular Water Testing at Van Buren & Cass County Beaches

"At-a-Glance” Alerts & Results

All Van Buren and Cass County beaches are open for swimming as of July 20, 2025. See results below.

See Current Beach Conditions
Current Beach Conditions

Check your favorite beach:

We test beach water for harmful bacteria like E. coli to make sure it’s safe to swim in Van Buren and Cass county.

For additional beach water testing results in Michigan and historical data, visit the Michigan Beachguard website.

Data Methods and Collection

View Michigan Public Health Code.
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Beach Water Results
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Pool Licensing Info
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Report a Concern
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Safe Swimming Tips
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Beach water safety is important for swimming

Why Beach Water Testing is Important

Beach water testing helps protect public health by identifying contaminants like E. coli and ensuring beaches meet state safety standards.

  • Detects harmful bacteria and pollutants.
  • Reduces the risk of waterborne illnesses.
  • Ensures beaches are safe for swimming.

Traveling? Check the latest beach water quality results before you swim with Beachguard on the EGLE website under Public Information and Services here.

Beach Water Monitoring
How Often Tested?

Beach water is tested biweekly

Real-time updates posted online

Check latest water quality results

Scroll down to see Van Buren and Cass County results at links below.

Contaminated Water
What Happens Next?

Beaches close and advisories are issued

Check signs and online updates

Review water quality before visiting

Kids Swimming
Protect Yourself and Family

Safe Swimming Tips

To minimize your risk while swimming, follow these safety tips:

  • Always check water quality results before swimming
  • Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall
  • Don’t swim if you have open wounds
  • Shower after swimming in natural bodies of water
Public Swimming Pool Inspections and Licensing

Importance of Public Swimming Pool Licensing

We are dedicated to ensuring that public swimming pools are maintained in safe and sanitary conditions. 

Legal Requirement: All public swimming pools must obtain a license before operating.

Health and Safety: Licensing ensures that pools meet established health standards, protecting the safety of all users.

Stay safe in Lake Michigan and in the pool water and on the beach.

Building a Public Swimming Pool

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) oversees the construction and maintenance of public swimming pools. Key requirements include:

Permit Requirement:

Health and Safety Guidelines:

Emergency and Contingency Plan:

  • Develop an effective response plan for emergencies. Read more here.
Have a Surface Water Concern?

Contact VBCDHD Environmental Health Team

Email Environmental Health Team
More Beach Water and Pool Safety Resources
    • EGLE Public Act Rules Governing Public Swimming Rules: Learn more
    • EGLE Monthly Swimming Pool Operation Report Form:  Download form
    • EGLE Public Swimming Pool Equipment Change Form: Download form