EPD Releases Year-Round Water Quality Ratings for Six Beaches: Four Good, Two Fair

Grading of beach water quality released

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) today (December 24) released the latest grading of water quality for six gazetted beaches that are open all year round for swimming.

Four beaches were rated as Good (Grade 1), and two as Fair (Grade 2).

Grade 1 beaches are:

Clear Water Bay Second Beach

Golden Beach

Deep Water Bay Beach

Silverstrand Beach

Grade 2 beaches are:

Casam Beach

Lido Beach

Compared with the grading released last week, there was no change in the grading for these beaches.

Under the present grading system, beaches are classified into four grades, namely Good (Grade 1), Fair (Grade 2), Poor (Grade 3) and Very Poor (Grade 4), according to the level of E. coli in the water. Grades are calculated on the basis of the geometric mean of the E. coli counts on the five most recent sampling occasions.

While the ratings represent the general water quality at the beaches, an EPD spokesman reminded members of the public that water quality could be temporarily affected during and after periods of heavy rain. Bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a tropical cyclone or heavy rainfall.

A summary of beach grades is published weekly before the weekend. The latest beach grades based on the most current data may be obtained from the EPD's website on Beach Water Quality (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/beach) or the beach hotline, 2511 6666. Members of the public can also obtain the latest daily water quality forecast information for all beaches that are open for swimming through the EPD's dedicated webpage on the beach water quality forecast (www.epd.gov.hk/en/BWQForecast).

Photo source: the official website of EPD

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected case of illegal importing of animal

Hong Kong Customs today (April 2) detected a suspected case of illegal importing of animal at the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point. A suspected illegally imported dog with an estimated market value of about $20,000 was seized.

Customs officers today intercepted an incoming 64-year-old female passenger at the Arrival Hall of the Control Point. Upon examination, a dog was seized from her rucksack, and she was subsequently arrested.

The case has been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.

Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

Hong Kong Customs detects suspected case of illegal importing of animal Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases