ST. CROIX — Beaches across the territory will welcome residents and visitors alike with warm (or cold) waters this weekend, as they are all safe for swimming and fishing, according to the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, which monitors the islands waters.<\/p>\n
On St. Croix, they are:\u00a0Stoney Ground, Protestant Cay, Buccaneer, Cramer Park, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), Dorsch, Frederiksted Public Beach, Pelican Cove (Comorant), Shoy\u2019s, Rainbow, Cane Bay, Chenay Bay, Princess (Condo Row), A \u2013 Mill Harbour, Halfpenny, Princess (Condo Row) and B \u2013 Breezez Grapetree Bay.<\/p>\n
On St. Thomas, they include:\u00a0Lindquist, Coki Point, Vessup Bay, Brewer\u2019s Bay, Bluebeards, Secret Harbor, Bolongo Bay, Sapphire, Water Bay, Frenchman\u2019s Bay, Hull Bay, Lindbergh Bay and Magen\u2019s Bay.<\/p>\n
And on St. John, the safe beaches are:\u00a0Oppenhiemer, Johnson Bay, Frank Bay, Cruz Bay and Great Cruz Bay.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
For additional information regarding water quality, call the Division of Environmental Protection at 773-1082 in St. Croix.<\/p>\n
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