BLUE WATER TASK FORCE

The Ventura BWTF program is focused on supplementing the County of Ventura's testing as a part of its Ocean Water Quality Testing Program. Currently, the county-led program tests fewer samples in the winter than in the summer; our program aims to fill the gap and serve as the first response to local water quality threats in our community. Specifically, we are focused on taking samples from 13 popular surf spots that are not tested by the County during winter months. While there may be fewer beachgoers overall in the winter months, there are more surfers in the water due to winter storm swells that are being exposed to pollution brought to the beach by stormwater and urban runoff.

• Feel comfortable in the ocean: We'll be sampling in waves up to knee or thigh level, depending on your height. We also face winter winds, waves, and cold water temperatures, so it's important to be in good physical condition.
• Have reliable transportation: to our designated drop-off site. Bikes are okay if the sampling location is close by, but you should have alternative transportation options for wet weather.
• Stay connected: We use email, text, and Surfrider platforms like Golden Volunteer and Google Drive to schedule sampling and lab work. You'll also need to use mobile phone apps to check wave, tide, and water/air temperatures.
• Be a resident of Ventura County: Our program is focused on protecting Ventura County's waterways, so we ask that you be a local resident.
• Commit to our schedule: We ask that you attend a training meeting in late October, participate in in-water training, and be available for at least 4 months out of the 5-month season. You can choose to participate in Thursday morning sampling sessions for about an hour, or you can choose to work in the lab on Thursdays from noon to 2 p.m. and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.