In Boston we still use flags to let the public know when the water is clean enough for fishing, boating or swimming.

Though the testing system isn’t perfect, it is easy to understand.

A blue flag means that the water was clean when it was tested.

A red flag means that it was not.

At Save the Harbor/Save the Bay we are working towards the day when there will be no need for water quality flags at all!


For recent water quality test results at your favorite beach, please visit the Mass Department of Public Health website.