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Health Department
Main Phone: 262-636-9201
Fax: 262-636-9564
After-hours Public Health Emergencies:
262-886-2300
Email:
Location:
730 Washington Avenue
Garden Level
Racine, WI 53403
Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 A.M. – 4:55 P.M.
Closed 11:55 AM – 1 PM
Laboratory
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The City of Racine Public Health Department – Laboratory Division has highly qualified personnel committed to maintaining the integrity of water resources, coastal recreational areas, and natural spaces. Using innovative methods and industry best practices in the fields of water resource management, environmental planning, habitat restoration, and laboratory technology. Acting as a research entity, frequently engaging in cooperative opportunities with Local (Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network), State (WI Department of Natural Resources), and National (US Geological Survey, US Environmental Protection Agency) partners as well as providing consulting services.
Depth of expertise allows comprehensive services in the areas of environmental monitoring (including pollution source investigation/identification), site assessments/restoration, public access/education, and sustainable best management practices.
2024 Root River Report Card
The 2024 Root River Report Card is a new online resource designed to inform the public about local water quality and promote environmental stewardship.
The Root River is an essential resource for the Racine community, supporting recreation, wildlife, and public health. The report card evaluates data from six monitoring sites along the river, assessing key indicators including E. coli, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, and conductivity.
Results show that while dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, and conductivity received high marks, E. coli and turbidity levels remain a concern—particularly after rainfall. Stormwater runoff significantly contributes to elevated bacteria and sediment levels, with 78% of samples following rain events exceeding E. coli standards. All six sites received failing grades for turbidity, underscoring the impact of runoff on water clarity and habitat health.
This tool highlights the challenges facing the Root River and offers clear, practical ways the public can contribute to improving water quality through individual and community action.
Beach Status
The beach status is updated Monday through Friday from approximately Memorial Day through Labor Day for North Beach and Zoo Beach. Beach status explanations describe what the water quality signs mean that are posted at the beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about beaches and water quality in the City of Racine.
Working with Us
Projects undertaken within the City of Racine Public Health Department Laboratory provide professional development and networking opportunities. Below are examples of local, regional, and national conference presentations and posters developed by student interns and Laboratory personnel.
Assessing the Economic Impact of Beach Restoration: A Case Study of North Beach, Racine, WI, 2014
To view employment opportunities, please visit Human Resources Jobs page.
