The Department of Planning and Natural Resources said on Friday that it only tested 14 beaches, with the only known unsafe area being the Buccaneer. D.P.N.R. did not say why it failed to sample its regular amount of 34 beaches.
See safe beaches per district below. Safety of untested waters remains unknown, D.P.N.R. said.
St. Croix: Protestant Cay, Cramer Park, Chenay Bay, New Fort (Ft. Louise Augusta), Princess Condo Row, Shoy’s, Grapetree Bay and Halfpenny Beach.
St. John: Cruz Bay, Great Cruz Bay, Frank Bay, Johnson Bay and Oppenhiemer.
St. Thomas beaches were not sampled.
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.
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