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This document outlines potential health risks from exposure to pathogenic microorganisms and other biological hazards associated with recreational waters.

This section provides guidance on other organisms that may affect the recreational value of natural waters by rendering them unsafe, aesthetically objectionable or otherwise unusable, and thus interfering with users’ health, physical comfort and enjoyment.

This document outlines the physical, aesthetic and chemical characteristics of the water and surrounding beach area that may affect their suitability for recreational activities. Guideline values or aesthetic objectives are recommended where possible. The values and associated guidance are intended to be applicable to all recreational waters, regardless of the types of activities practised.

This guideline technical document evaluated the available information on managing risks in recreational areas with the intent of updating/recommending a preventive risk management approach to managing recreational areas. The purpose of this consultation is to solicit comments on the proposed approach and on the potential impacts of implementing the recommendations.

Maintaining safe recreational waters requires a concerted effort from all of its stakeholders. From government at all levels, to local businesses and industry, to beach managers, community members and recreational water users - we all have a role to play in helping keep our beaches clean and our swimming waters safe.

The primary goal of the Guidelines for Canadian Recreational Water Quality is the protection of public health and safety. This document provides guidance on the factors that can interfere with the safety of recreational waters from a human health perspective. It is intended to guide decisions by provincial and local authorities that are responsible for the management of recreational waters.

This document outlines guideline values and select strategies for managing health risks related to exposure to cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) and their toxins.

Priority C (lower hazard) micro-organism strains on the Domestic Substances List (DSL) were identified for expedited assessment based on their meeting the criteria for lower potential to cause harm to human health or the environment as described in Prioritization of Micro-organisms on the Domestic Substances List.

Nitrate and nitrite are widespread in the environment. They are naturally produced by the oxidation of nitrogen by microorganisms and, to a lesser extent, by lightning. The maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) for nitrate in drinking water is 45 mg/L. This is equivalent to 10 mg/L measured as nitrate-nitrogen.

Priority A (higher hazard) micro-organism strains on the Domestic Substances List (DSL) were given a high priority for assessment because the Government of Canada considered them human, plant or animal pathogens (in the case of microbial consortia) or because their hazard level is uncertain.