Editor’s Note: The City of Bellingham’s response has been added.

BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new study on local stormwater runoff comes on the heels of swimming advisories issued across Bellingham.

RE Sources, a Bellingham-based non-profit, studied the quality of stormwater flowing into Bellingham Bay between 2021 and 2023.

Their study found that most of the Bellingham Bay’s stormwater runoff points are hotspots for bacteria pollution, especially E. coli. The Bennett Outfall, located close to Taylor Dock in Fairhaven, recorded levels of E. coli five times higher than the safest limits.

Researchers say that pollution levels at Taylor Dock are likely diluted but advise people wanting to swim there to proceed with caution.

RE Sources’ report comes roughly a week after Whatcom County Health and Community Services issued a swimming advisory for Boulevard Park and Taylor Dock due to high levels of fecal bacteria.

In late 2023, RE Sources also began testing stormwater areas for various chemicals as well as Enterococcus, which is found in both fresh and marine waters. Squalicum Creek recorded the highest percentage of Enterococcus, with results exceeding safe levels all six times the stormwater was tested.

Data from this study has since been merged with data from other parts of Washington state as part of the Salish Sea Stormwater Monitoring Program.

The City of Bellingham released a statement Wednesday saying they are actively investigating the possible sources for the contaminants. They’re looking at infrastructure and permits as well as doing fielding samplings and business outreach to identify sourcing. The city says bacterial contamination often comes from multiple sources.