Birch Bay and Terrell Creek Algae Bloom FAQ’s

Why does the beach stink? Why does Terrell Creek stink?

Bacterial and algal growth occur when water levels are low, slow-moving, warm and nutrient-rich. There is also a buildup of decaying organic matter like seaweed in Birch Bay and lower Terrell Creek every summer. These natural conditions generate strong sulfur smells, surface films, and unusual colors in the creek. The extent and severity of the smell and murkiness varies annually but is most prevalent in late summer/early fall. The issues will resolve and the creek will return to its normal look and smell once the fall rains start flushing out the waterways. Learn more about the causes of beach odors:

Can I eat the fish or shellfish around these areas?

We work with the Washington State Department of Health to monitor for toxins that can be present in shellfish. When toxin levels are too high, we close the beach to recreational shellfish harvesting and post signs to let you know. Closure signs can be damaged or stolen, so you should always check the beach status before collecting shellfish. 

Check the Washington State Shellfish Safety Map or call the 24-hour Shellfish Safety Hotline at 1-800-562-5632. To learn more about safe shellfish harvesting, visit our Shellfish Safety page.

What are the impacts of excess nutrients?

Two of the most abundant nutrients are nitrogen and phosphorous. When these nutrients accumulate in the water, this leads to a process called eutrophication. Eutrophication results in an overgrowth of algae or a “Bloom” that consumes oxygen and blocks sunlight from underwater plants. 

What are the possible sources of nutrients in Terrell Creek, Lake Terrell and Birch Bay?

 Algae blooms occur naturally, but human/animal activities and nutrient inputs can impact their growth. These nutrients come from various sources including septic systems, agriculture, fertilizer use, pet waste and wildlife waste.

What can I do to help?

There are many preventive measures watershed residents can take to reduce nutrient inputs. A few simple actions include:

  • Avoid fertilizer, pesticide and herbicide use. 
  • Re-establish shoreline vegetation with native plants.
  • Properly dispose of yard waste. 
  • Schedule a routine septic system inspection. 
  • Clean up pet waste. 
  • Reduce runoff from agricultural operations:
    • Restrict livestock access to creeks and rivers.
    • Implement cover crops.
    • Install riparian buffers along waterways.
    • Collect and properly store manure.
  • Prevent runoff and soil erosion. 
    • Place hardwood chips, arborist chips or hog-fuel mulch over soil. Use a barrier such as bricks or wood to contain soil in the garden.

Who is monitoring the water quality?

Whatcom County Public Works staff sample the creek and other locations in the watershed twice a month to monitor fecal coliform bacteria levels. Whatcom County Public Works post the results on this Surface Water Monitoring map and Routine Water Quality Monitoring Results page at least monthly. 

Whatcom County Health and Community Services staff monitor water quality for swimming in Birch Bay between Memorial Day and Labor Day as part of their BEACH program. 

Whatcom County Health and Community Services staff regularly monitor for marine biotoxins (poisons produced by certain kinds of microscopic algae) and close shellfish harvesting areas when our tests detect unsafe levels. Check the Shellfish Safety Map for beach closures and advisories on the day you plan to harvest shellfish.

When do I need to have concerns or report what I see? How do I report?

If you see bright blue or green algae coating the water's surface, it could be a harmful algal bloom. Report it to Whatcom County Health and Community Services by emailing [email protected] or calling 360-778-6000.

If you see dead fish or shellfish carcasses, report them to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife at their Fish and Shellfish Carcass Reporting Form.

If you see a spill of hazardous material, oil, sewage, or an activity that is causing pollution, report it in one of the following ways: