The Department of Planning and Natural Resources on Friday issued its weekly beach advisory, revealing that six beaches territory-wide were unsafe for swimming and fishing this weekend. However more beaches could be unsafe, as D.P.N.R. did not test St. Thomas beaches (no reason was given), leaving residents in Charlotte Amalie with the option to swim or fish at their own risk.
In St. Croix, the beaches deemed unsafe for swimming and fishing by D.P.N.R. because they did not meet water quality standards considered safe, were the Frederiksted Public Beach (above), Cane Bay, Dorsch Beach and Rain Bow. On St. John, the beaches classified as unsafe were Great Cruz Bay and Frank Bay.
Beaches deemed safe on St. Croix were: Stony Ground, Protestant Cay, Chenay Bay, Buccaneer, Davis Bay, Cramer Park, Columbus Landing, Shoy’s, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), (First Target) Pelican Cove, (Comorant) Princess (Condo Row), Sprat Hall, Halfpenny and Grapetree Bay.
On St. John, the safe beaches are: Johnson Bay, Crux Bay and Oppenhiemer.
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
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