The Alabama Department of Public Health has lifted swimming advisories for Arnica Bay at Pirate's Cove and Perdido Bay at Kee Avenue. The advisories were issued on September 27, 2024, due to high bacteria levels.

After testing water samples collected on September 30, 2024, officials confirmed that bacteria levels are now below the Environmental Protection Agency's threshold of 104 colonies per 100 milliliters, making the water safe for swimming.

The Alabama Department of Public Health and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management operate the water quality monitoring program, funded by the EPA's BEACH Act Program, to ensure public safety at coastal locations.

The tests specifically check for enterococci bacteria, which can indicate the presence of harmful germs. These bacteria come from the intestines of humans and animals, which can lead to potential health risks.

For further details on the water monitoring program, visit the Alabama Department of Environmental Management’s website.