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Environmentalists Say Water Standards Delay Endangers Swimmers

Environmentalists say a federal agency is dragging its feet when it comes to setting ocean water quality standards. The group says the delays are putting swimmers at risk for diseases. KPBS reporter E

Environmentalists Say Water Standards Delay Endangers Swimmers

Environmentalists say a federal agency is dragging its feet when it comes to setting ocean water quality standards. The group says the delays are putting swimmers at risk for diseases. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce has details.

The Natural Resources Defense Council says beachgoers in Southern California are swimming in bacteria much of the time. The NRDC says bacteria and other pollution pour into the ocean from sewers, septic systems and storm water runoff. The group says nationwide in 2005, there were 20,000 closings and health advisory days at ocean, bay and Great Lakes beaches.

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In San Diego County, the main source of bacteria in the water comes from storm water runoff or broken sewer pipes. In Los Angeles County, the NRDC says the water is often dirty enough to cause diseases including dysentery and hepatitis. The EPA has missed a 2005 deadline for setting new ocean water standards, blaming the delay on time needed for studies. The NRDC sued over the missed deadline. A federal court hearing to decide the issue was postponed this week. Both sides are now working to resolve the issue.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.