Most of the territory’s beaches tested by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources this week proved to be safe for swimming and fishing. However, Lindquist and Bolongo Bay in St. Thomas were deemed unsafe, while Stoney Ground and Grapetree Bay on St. Croix were not tested.
The safe beaches are:
St. Croix: Cramer Park, Shoy’s, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), Buccaneer, Chenay Bay, Halfpenny, Dorsch, Frederiksted Public Beach, Cane Bay, Sprat Hall, Pelican Cove (Cormorant), Protestant Cay, Rainbow, Columbus Landing, and Princess Condo Row.
St. Thomas: Magen’s Bay, Brewer’s Bay, Lindbergh Bay, Hull Bay, Vessup Bay, Coki Point, Sapphire, Bluebeards, Secret Harbor and Water Bay.
St. John: Frank Bay, Oppenheimer, Great Cruz Bay, Johnson Bay and Cruz Bay.
D.P.N.R. 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 agency says it will continue to monitor these popular swimming areas. D.P.N.R. also recommends that beachgoers 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 on St. Croix.
Tags: beach advisory, usvi
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