Popular Bay Area beach could be closed for THREE years after disgusting discovery: ‘It’s as gross as it sounds’

A popular Bay Area beach could be closed for three years due to a sewage leak that has flowed from nearby cliffs.

Marin County emergency crews discovered a sewage leak near Bolinas Beach, closing the beach to both people and pets.

“When I heard sewage coming down, it was a bit of a shock,” said Craig Fagin, who added that the situation sounds as dire as it is.

The closure extends approximately 1.6 miles from Brighton Avenue north to Agate Beach.

“After testing a number of wells along the cliff, we discovered that the substance was sewage. It contained E. coli, which coats human waste,” Marin County spokesperson Laine Hendricks told local ABC. KGO.

Bolinas Beach could be closed for three years due to a sewage leak that has seeped from nearby cliffs

Despite the closure, there was no noticeable foul odor in the air during a recent visit by the local news station.

Sarah Jones, director of the Marin County Community Development Agency, estimates that sewage spills occur at dozens of sites. Three of those sites together discharge about 40,000 gallons of waste into the ocean each day, mostly during high tide.

The source of the sewage leak remains unclear. Although the community is primarily on septic systems, officials are investigating whether these systems, natural causes or soil erosion are the cause.

Residents recently expressed their concerns about the possible duration of the beach closure during a neighborhood meeting.

“I think this is a big event for the community, a very serious event. We are afraid that the beach will have to be closed for three years because of this,” said one of the neighbors.

The closure has a negative impact on local businesses, as beachgoers boost the local economy during the summer months.

“Like I said, it’s concerning,” said resident Nader Ghattas. “We don’t know much, but it’s been quiet.”

Marin County officials continue to test and take action to address the sewer leak.

Pictured: The affected areas along Bolinas Bay

Officials estimate the sewage flow occurs at dozens of locations, with three of those locations collectively discharging about 43,000 gallons of waste into the ocean each day.

The reopening date for Bolinas Beach remains uncertain. Although the county has declared the drinking water safe, homeowners with wells are advised to test their water as a precaution.

The closures come after a series of beaches on the east coast were closed due to the discovery of medical waste, including used needles, pill bottles and tampons, washing up.

Swimmers in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware are advised to avoid the ocean.

The closures also affected Rehoboth Beach, a popular vacation destination for President Joe Biden.