ST. CROIX — The Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources, through its weekly release on water quality at the territory’s popular beaches, revealed that Megan’s Bay and Morning Star in St. Thomas did not meet accepted standards because they exceeded the established enterococci bacteria threshold, and therefore are not considered to be safe for swimming or fishing.
Aside from the aforementioned, all beaches were deemed safe. They include the following:
St. Thomas: Lindquist, Coki point, Vessup Bay, Brewer’s Bay, Bluebeards, Secret Harbor, Bolongo Bay, Sapphire, Water Bay, Frenchman’s Bay, Hull Bay and Lindbergh Bay.
On St. Croix, 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, Halfpenny Princess (Condo Row) B – Breezez and Grapetree Bay were all considered safe.
And on St. John, Oppenhiemer, Johnson Bay, Frank Bay, Cruz Bay and Great Cruz Bay were cleared for swimming and fishing this weekend.
DPNR says 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.
The government agency added that it will continue to monitor these popular swimming areas. DPNR also recommends that residents use their own 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 in St. Croix.
Tags: megan's bay st.thomas
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