Heal the Bay's annual Beach Report Card has named the Santa Monica Pier area one of California's dirtiest beaches for the 10th year in a row, citing high fecal pollution levels. - Bacteria levels have risen since 2020, reaching up to 20 times safety thresholds.
- A task force has been formed to investigate the pollution's cause. - Only 21 beaches made the honor roll this year, down from 62 last year.
The report emphasizes that water quality is a public health issue, with potential illnesses from exposure.