Bathers visiting Abermawr in Pembrokeshire, Wales will find a shingle coastal environment. Tested regularly during the bathing season, the location holds a current annual water quality classification of Excellent. The site was designated as an official bathing water site in 2012, supporting local outdoor recreation.
The shoreline consists primarily of shingle. Sediment type dictates underfoot comfort, wave energy absorption, and the water's clarity when currents stir up the seabed.
Water quality is classified as excellent, meeting the highest cleanliness standards. Bacterial counts (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) are consistently low, posing negligible health risks.
Bacterial levels are highly susceptible to storm runoff. Heavy rainfall in the local catchment is likely to trigger storm overflows and agricultural runoff, rendering the water temporarily unsafe.
Tested weekly by the Environment Agency England for bacteria levels (E. coli & Intestinal Enterococci) between May and September.
Monitored as a coastal beach. Coastal beaches are subject to tidal flows and marine dilution, whereas inland lakes/rivers suffer from low water circulation, meaning bacteria can linger longer.
Unknown is the regional utility responsible for waste water treatment, sewage infrastructure, and storm overflow management in this catchment area.
Officially designated as a protected bathing water site in 2012. This designation mandates regular public health monitoring.
Governed under local district sanitation and environmental safety regulations in the Pembrokeshire area.