The Blue Wave project is the nation's first environmental certification program for beach areas. The program certifies beaches that meet strict criteria for water quality, cleanliness, public safety and environmental management. We're extremely pleased that in the last year, the number of beach communities in coastal states applying for certification has grown steadily. We're confident that more will 'seek the wave' for the good of the environment, beach lovers all over the country and the economy. The council works with state and local environmental authorities to verify data submitted by managers of beach areas.
Certification is valid for one year.
Because compliance with federal standards for coastal areas is voluntary, beaches around the country suffer from inconsistent water quality and other health threats, according to the American Oceans Campaign. Fort Lauderdale Beach was also cited as one of the country's best by the Clean Beaches Council. In the past 10 years, nearly 19,000 beaches have been closed because of unsafe water, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Visitors from other countries spend even more. Beaches play a unique and vital role in the nation's environment, economy and way of life.