Back in June, 2007, many studies were released that showed E.Coli was not only present in lake water, but that strong concentrations also resided in beach sand. This proved especially problematic to fresh water lakes, which are the depositories of runoff and waste-treatment overflow. Beaches found on the Great Lakes—especially Lake Michigan, Superior, and Eerie—received negative PR and multiple beach closings, which resulted in lost money and reputation. However, beach cleaner machines were ready to help and currently can be used to fight bacteria in the sand.

How can beach cleaners be used to clean the beach without disrupting their natural ecosystems? Learn about a few common cleaning method adaptations here.