ST. CROIX — The Department of Planning and Natural Resources on Friday made known that five beaches on the island of St. Croix were not safe for swimming and fishing this weekend, and should be avoided by residents.
The beaches are considered inadequate this weekend because they exceed the established enterococci bacteria threshold. They include Stoney Ground, Frederiksted Public Beach, above, Cane Bay, Columbus landing, Pelican Cove (Comorant).
All other beaches have been cleared as good for swimming and fishing this weekend.
In St. Croix: Protestant Cay, Buccaneer, Cramer Park, Shoy’s, Rainbow, Chenay Bay, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), Halfpenny, Dorsch, Grapetree Bay, Spratt hall, and Princess (Condo Row).
In St. Thomas, they include: Lindquist, Coki Point, Vessup Bay, Brewer’s Bay, Bluebeards, Secret Harbor, Bolongo Bay, Sapphire, Water Bay, Frenchman’s Bay, Hull Bay, Lindbergh Bay and Magen’s Bay.
And in St. John, the safe beaches are: Oppenhiemer, Johnson Bay, Frank Bay, Cruz Bay and Great Cruz Bay.
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, says DPNR.
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 in St. Croix.
Tags: beach advisory, us virgin islands
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