In this episode, Chris and his dog stop at Harrington Beach State Park, on the shores of Lake Michigan. Listening to the gulls at the beach and seeing the warning signs about bacteria and beach closings, Chris recalls an informative conversation he had with Dr. Sandra McLellan and a graduate student from her lab, Amber Koskey. They reveal the science and challenges behind monitoring bacteria at beaches – the process that helps determine whether beaches are safe for swimming. Their work is vital for the health and safety of everyone who enjoys swimming in Lake Michigan waters.