Lakes in Whatcom County are generally healthy to recreate or swim in. We do not regularly monitor freshwater lakes, but we do respond to questions or concerns by collecting and testing water samples.
If you operate a pool, hot tub, or float tank in Whatcom County, you’ll need to follow the Washington State rules for water recreation facilities and have a current annual operating permit issued by us.
If you have questions about stream surface water monitoring and water quality maps refer to the Public Works’ Water Quality Monitoring page.
