The Department of Planning and Natural Resources, in its weekly beach advisory, said that three beaches in St. Thomas were unsafe for swimming and fishing this weekend, while results for St. Croix waters would not be available until Monday because of pending lab results.
The three unsafe beaches in St. Thomas are Coki Point, Bolongo Bay and Limetree Bay, according to D.P.N.R. These beaches are considered unsafe this weekend because they exceed the established enterococci bacteria threshold considered as safe.
Safe St. Thomas beaches this week are as follows: Secret Harbor, Frenchman’s Bay, Hull Bay, Lindquist, Bluebeards, Sapphire, Magen’s Bay, Lindbergh Bay, Brewer’s Bay, Vessup Bay and Water Bay.
Safe St. John beaches are: Johnson Bay, Cruz Bay, Oppenhiemer, Great Cruz Bay and Frank 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 D.P.N.R.
The department, led by Commissioner Dawn L. Henry, says it will continue to monitor these popular swimming areas. D.P.N.R. 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.
Feature Image: Coki Point.
Tags: beach advisory
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