Two Lambton County beaches and two marinas have secured Blue Flag certification for another summer.
The international award, given to beaches and marinas that meet high environmental, safety and cleanliness standards, has been given to Canatara Beach in Sarnia, Grand Bend Beach, the Grand Bend Marina and the Port Franks Marina.
Sarnia Parks and Recreation Manager Krissy Glavin said a Blue Flag beach tells visitors that it is managed sustainably, is accessible, has high-quality services and safety procedures, and actively monitors water quality.
"There's actually 33 criteria that have to be met in order to be certified Blue Flag," said Glavin.
Canatara beach has been flying a Blue Flag since 2014.
"The Blue Flag will be flown when lifeguards are on duty," Glavin added. "We still have our Mobi-mat. Which are our accessible mats that allow wheelchairs to get access down to the beach, as well, there is an accessible beach wheelchair that is available from the lifeguard station to transport people right down to the water, if they wish."
In all, 20 beaches and nine marinas were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Canada certification this year.
Ontario beaches and marinas dominated the list with sixteen beaches and seven marinas.
An organization called Swim Drink Fish operates Blue Flag Canada on behalf of Blue Flag International and the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The full list of 2023 Blue Flag beaches and marinas in Canada can be found here.
