SANTA BARBARA - SB County Public Health closed Hendry's Beach (Arroyo Burro beach)  today in response to a spill of untreated sewage. Closure will continue until testing reveals it is safe. 

 

The spill involved approximately 700 gallons of sewage and occurred near the intersection of Cliff Drive and Mesa Lane. The untreated sewage flowed into an adjacent storm drain that eventually discharges at Arroyo Burro Beach. As a result, Arroyo Burro beach has been closed to recreational water contact for approximately 300 yards on either side of Arroyo Burro Creek. The affected area has been posted with signs warning the public to avoid contact with the water until sample results indicate the water is safe for recreational use. Contact with sewage contaminated water increases the risk for certain types of illnesses.

 

In addition, the public should wait until at least 10 days to harvest shellfish in the affected area. Because they are filter feeders, shellfish from contaminated waters represent and elevated risk of disease if consumed.