Clark County residents can help prevent fires, injuries and pollution by properly disposing of fireworks after their Fourth of July celebrations. While fireworks sales begin this week, fireworks cannot legally be discharged in unincorporated Clark County until July 4.

Improper disposal of fireworks puts waste and recycling workers at increased risk of injury from fires in their trucks and at transfer stations. And fireworks debris, if not properly cleaned up, can be washed into storm drains that lead to streams, rivers and lakes. Fireworks contain heavy metals… Read More

The number of whooping cough cases in Clark County in 2024 is more than four times as high as the same time last year. Most of the 60 cases identified so far this year are among people who have never been vaccinated against whooping cough.

Whooping cough – or pertussis – is a serious respiratory illness that spreads easily from person to person when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. Whooping cough can be especially serious for babies younger than 1 year, who are at greatest risk for severe complications. About 1 in 3 babies younger than 1 year old who… Read More

Clark County Public Health lifted the swim beach warning at Battle Ground Lake today, June 6, after the latest water samples did not show elevated levels of bacterial contamination.

Public Health issued a warning advisory for the swim beach at Battle Ground Lake on May 30, after routine testing revealed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. Warning signs were posted at the swim beach until a second round of samples could confirm improved water quality. Test results from water samples taken on Monday, June 3 came back today and showed improved water quality… Read More

Clark County Solid Waste is launching a monthlong “Secure your Load for Safer Roads” campaign in partnership with Washington State Department of Ecology. The campaign aims to help reduce the number of unsecured vehicle loads on roads in the county and decrease the presence of road litter which contributes to pollution of our waterways and habitat land. 

The campaign coincides with national Secure Your Load Day on June 6, which commemorates the lives taken and injuries caused due to unsecured loads. In Washington, over 300 crashes are attributed to unsecured… Read More

Clark County Green Neighbors invites community members to visit local gardens that exemplify the beauty of nature and sustainable gardening practices during this month’s Natural Garden Tour. 

The Natural Garden Tour is 10 am to 3 pm Sunday, June 23 and will occur rain or shine. The self-guided tour will feature nine gardens throughout Clark County, each demonstrating different natural gardening techniques. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to explore these gardens and learn about innovative and environmentally friendly gardening techniques in use.… Read More

Clark County Public Health has issued a swim beach warning at Battle Ground Lake after routine testing showed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, which can cause serious gastrointestinal illness when water is accidentally swallowed.

Test results for one of five water samples collected at Battle Ground Lake on Tuesday, May 28 showed elevated levels of E. coli bacteria. The other samples had bacteria levels within acceptable water quality standards.

Warning signs are being posted at the lake. While the warning is in place, Public Health… Read More

The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for a volunteer position on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. 

Applications are being accepted for the position representing small cities and towns in Clark County (cities other than Vancouver). Applicants should be a member of one of the city or town councils or a representative who lives or works in those jurisdictions. The three-year term begins immediately upon appointment.

The Solid Waste Advisory Commission holds quarterly meetings at 6 pm on the first Thursday of February, May, August… Read More

With warm weather in the forecast for this weekend, Clark County Public Health is reminding people to take caution in and around water – especially area lakes and rivers. In spring and early summer, lakes and rivers in Southwest Washington are still cold, and water may be moving quickly. 

“Temperatures may be warming up this weekend, but lakes and rivers are still cold enough to shock and immobilize even the strongest swimmers,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Clark County health officer and Public Health director.

Public Health urges people of all… Read More

Clark County Public Health’s offices will be closed on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 for an all-day staff training event. Online services will continue to be available.

Public Health’s online permitting portal enables people to submit new permit applications and renewals, upload required documents, review account activity, and make payments. Food worker testing continues to be available online. And people can… Read More

This Earth Day, Clark County Public Health is honoring environmental sustainability leaders in local K-12 schools and businesses with the 2024 Green Awards. The annual Green Awards highlight the accomplishments of individuals and organizations and celebrate their commitment to reducing harmful environmental impacts, educating others, and giving back to the community. 

This year’s awards recognize two local educators and three Green Businesses for their commitment to creating a healthy and sustainable culture in their communities. Winners will receive unique… Read More