ST. CROIX — DPNR on Wednesday announced the results of its weekly beach water quality monitoring program, which made known that all but two beaches on St. Croix — Princess (Condo Row) B – Breezez and Grapetree Bay — were safe for swimming and fishing for the long holiday weekend.
However, the government agency was unable to sample beaches in St. Thomas and St. John because the laboratory in that district was closed early due to the holiday season.
On this island, the beaches cleared for swimming and fishing this week are the following:
Stoney Ground, Protestant Cay, Buccaneer, Cramer Park, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), Dorsch, Frederiksted Public Beach, Pelican Cove (Comorant), Shoy’s, Rainbow, Cane Bay, Chenay Bay, Gentle Winds, Princess (Condo Row) A – Mill Harbour and Halfpenny.
The release also made known that high levels of enterococci bacteria and turbidity may be caused by runoff due to heavy rains, heavy marine vessel traffic, high wave activity near the shoreline, irresponsible recreational use, etc. Runoff can consist of sediment, pesticides, animal feces and oil & grease, all of which are harmful to the waters of the territory.
And the department, led by Commissioner Dawn L. Henry, says it will continue to monitor these popular swimming areas. DPNR also recommends that residents use their discretion when swimming or fishing at the designated beaches. If the waters appear muddy or murky or have foul odors, do not swim or fish.
For additional information regarding water quality, call the Division of Environmental Protection at 773-1082 on St. Croix.
Feature Image: Shoy’s Beach, St. Croix.
Tags: beaches, department of planning and natural resources
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