The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department has lifted the water contact closure for Miramar Beach from ¼-mile east to 1/8-mile west of the Oak Creek outfall.

Recent ocean water-quality testing conducted by Environmental Health Services has confirmed the ocean water is now safe for recreational use in this area following recent sewage impacts.

The Health Department reminds the public that while the causes are unrelated, Goleta beach remains closed. The water contact closure for Goleta Beach from one-mile east to ½-mile west of the Goleta Slough outfall remains in effect.

The affected area has been posted with signs warning the public to avoid all 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

The county of Santa Barbara said it implements a variety of programs to protect public health and enhance environmental quality of county watersheds and beaches.

To learn what is being done to improve water quality and how to help, visit www.sbprojectcleanwater.org.