Considering that the population of Los Angeles County is about 10 million people, and that much of the pollution, waste, and pesticide produced by these humans ends up in the ocean, Sunset is not as polluted as you might expect. During dry weather, Sunset usually receives an "A" rating in LA County's Water Quality Report. After a rain, however, Sunset usually receives an "F" rating. Heal the Bay recommends that you do not swim or surf within 100 yards of any flowing storm drain and for 3 days after a rain storm.

The primary storm drain that affects Sunset is directly east of the Gladstone's jetty. There are several smaller drainpipes that dump into the ocean beneath the rock berm from the point to the Bel-Air Bay Club. Obviously, it would be much better if this water was treated before flowing into the ocean. Some plans are on the table for possibly doing this in the future. We can only hope.

Another problem is all the trash, dog poop, dirty diapers, syringes, and other tasty treats that get deposited on the shore. Maybe one day, human beings will learn to respect our earth a bit better, but so far we have not quite gotten it. Every bit helps though. We should all try to pick up some of this trash and maybe even educate a few folks along the way.