Disaster Response: A disaster will undoubtedly overwhelm our present capability to respond adequately and in an organized manner.  The purpose of this program is to improve our ability to respond to disasters by preparing and training for such events.

Mussel Quarantine: The annual mussel quarantine begins on May 1^st and extends through October 31^st.  The quarantine is an annual public health advisory warning sport-harvesters to avoid eating all species of bivalve shellfish such as clams, mussels, scallops, oysters, and the viscera of anchovies, sardines and crab (commonly known as crab butter) harvested on County of San Luis Obispo coastline.  The purpose of the quarantine is to protect the public from ingesting dangerous levels of domoic acid that can occur naturally in the above noted ocean species.  This quarantine does not apply to state-certified commercial shellfish harvesters and dealers. For most recent media release see Alerts, Recalls, & Media Releases.

Ocean Water Monitoring:The purpose of this program is to monitor for potentially hazardous bacterial contamination and safety hazards that may adversely affect the beneficial recreational uses of public beaches specifically swimming and other body and water contact activities.

Sewage: The purpose of this program is to protect the health and safety of the public and environment from the improper discharge of sewage from public and on-site sewage disposal systems and graywater systems and to ensure the proper handling of sewage by liquid waste pumper vehicles.

Solid Waste: The purpose of this program is to protect public health and the environment from the effects of improper storage, disposal and hauling of solid waste.  The goals of this program are accomplished through a program of inspection, permitting, complaint investigation, public education, and assistance to industry.

Storm Water: The purpose of this program is to protect human health and safety from the damaging effects to both human health and aquatic ecosystems from pollutants found in urban runoff including sediments, non-sediment solids, nutrients, pathogens, oxygen-demanding substances, petroleum hydrocarbons, heavy metals, floatables, trash, and pesticides and herbicides through a program of inspection, complaint investigation, public education, and assistance to industry.

Waste Tires: The purpose of this program is to protect public health and the environment from the effects of improper disposal of waste tires including potential threats to the public health, safety, and environment, particularly when they are improperly maintained or catch fire.  These negative environmental effects include habitat for pests and vectors, toxic smoke and residues, and contaminated air, water, and soil. The goals of this program are accomplished through a program of inspection, permitting, complaint investigation, public education, and assistance to industry.