Manhattan Beach
SEVERNA PARK, MARYLAND
Water Quality and Reporting
As residents of Manhattan Beach, our lives are deeply tied to the health of the Magothy River and our surrounding tidal creeks. Keeping our community beaches—Dividing, Oak Grove, and Cypress—safe and beautiful requires all of us to keep a watchful eye on the water. If you observe any signs of water quality deterioration, such as unusual algae blooms, cloudy or murky water, fish kills, or chemical sheen, documenting and reporting it immediately ensures our local ecosystem remains protected for everyone to enjoy.
⚠️ Emergency Notice: If you witness an active sewage spill, a broken water main, or a wastewater backup, this is a public health emergency that requires immediate intervention. Please do not touch or enter the water. Take clear photos if it is safe to do so, note your exact location, and immediately report the incident to Anne Arundel County’s 24/7 Emergency Services line at (410) 222-8400, then notify the local health department.
Other Resources:
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Anne Arundel County DPW Utilities Emergency (24/7):
Call (410) 222-8400 to report active sewer overflows, backups, or water line breaks. -
Anne Arundel County Health Department: Check the
for recent enterococci bacteria counts and active beach closures or preemptive rainfall advisories.Recreational Water Quality Swim Guide -
County 311 Reporting System: Dial 3-1-1 or use the SeeClickFix mobile app to report non-emergency environmental concerns directly to county representatives.
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Maryland Environmental Emergency Hotline: Call 1 (866) 633-4686 to report fish kills or major chemical and oil spills to the MDE and DNR.