SHARE

Save The Sound: Mamaroneck Harbor Testing Finds High Bacteria Levels

MAMARONECK, N.Y. – Significant bacterial contamination was discovered at 10 locations in and around Mamaroneck Harbor, a report by Save the Sound announced on Wednesday -  World Water Monitoring Day.

Westchester health officials often close Harbor Island Beach in Mamaroneck due to contamination problems during heavy rain.

Westchester health officials often close Harbor Island Beach in Mamaroneck due to contamination problems during heavy rain.

Photo Credit: File Photo

Eight of the 10 sites along the waterways that flow into Mamaroneck Harbor need further testing and investigation to determine the cause of elevated levels of E. coli and fecal coliform bacteria, the report said.  Two sites, at a local A&P supermarket and at the Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club, require follow-up testing to confirm that fixes have been implemented successfully, according to the report.

Save the Sound said it plans to return to the area next summer to conduct this testing, along with additional testing upstream on the Mamaroneck and Sheldrake rivers and Beaver Swamp Brook.

“The shockingly high levels of bacteria found at some testing locations are no doubt part of the reason Mamaroneck’s beaches are closed so often,” said Tom Andersen, Save the Sound’s New York program and communications director. “Village officials acted quickly to remedy the worst problems, but more repairs will be needed. By tracking down and fixing widespread sewage leaks and other illegal discharges throughout Westchester County, we can reopen our beaches and protect water quality along our shoreline.

Save the Sound said Westchester’s Long Island Sound beaches were shut down for 138 beach days in 2013, and 112 days in 2012.

To read more about the report, click here.

to follow Daily Voice Mamaroneck and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE