Hello!
Nine locations exhibited were not within the acceptable levels for recreational water activities. These include Shoreham Community Beach, South Down Shores, Riva Trace, Hillsmere Beach, Hillsmere Marina, Harbor Hills, Almshouse Creek, Beverly Beach, and West River Sailing Club. All samples were analyzed by a local laboratory.
Additionally, please keep in mind that samples were collected on Wednesday, prior to heavy rain later that night. The rain washes pollutants from the surrounding watershed into the waterways and may increase bacteria levels of the water.
Anne Arundel County has a 48 hour no swimming guidance of water ways after a rain event.
On Wednesday, July 1st, Arundel Rivers Federation staff collected water samples at the locations listed on the chart. Feces from geese and dogs, as well as leaky septic tanks are the top contributors to high bacteria results.
The acceptable concentration of Enterococci bacteria for swimming and other direct water contact is less than 104 (cfu) colony forming units/100ml.
Have a safe and wonderful weekend,
Jesse Iliff,
South, West and Rhode Riverkeeper
