The Rhode Island Surfrider Chapter collects water samples year-round, so there is information available when a beautiful winter swell, like the one above, hits. RI's 2010 BWTF data is posted on the University of Rhode Island's website.
Water Test Results
by Peter Pan,
posted on Saturday, February 6th, 2010 at 11:12 am NortheastSurfing.com
The 2010 edition of the Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Task Force ocean water testing cycle began two weeks ago in relatively calm seas off the local coastline. On January 23, volunteer surfers braved the frigid air and water temperatures to collect their samples at 12 of the area’s premier surfing breaks. Despite the fact that there had been no major storm activity, there was some evidence of water pollution found in the results that were released yesterday. Several groups of bacteria species are used to indicate the presence of human sewage and associated pathogens or disease causing organisms. In Rhode Island two groups are monitored in order to protect human health-fecal coliforms and enterococci.
The highest pollution readings came at the same two problem spots. Both K-39 and the Weekapaug Breechway tested at 41 and 42 enterococci per 100 mL of water samples. The Rhode Island Department of Health standard for recreational contact (swimming and surfing) is 35 enterococci per 100 mL. or less. This means that there were increased risks of contracting gastrointestinal illnesses from water contact at those two surf spots. Although the criteria for marine waters is higher at 104 enterococci per 100 mL. this does not mean that the ocean water was clean by any standards. Local surfers are advised to avoid swallowing ocean water and covering up the ears when surfing these areas. It is also wise not to surf with an open cut or sore. All other surf breaks showed an average of 10 enterococci per 100 mL. which was passable and clean by Rhode Island Department of Health standards.
In the other water test involving fecal coliforms the Scarborough Beach South area showed the highest pollution content at 13 fecal coliform per 100 mL. Both Conant Avenue and First Beach in Newport had readings of 10 fecal coliforms per 100 mL. The standard for pollution alert is 14 fecal coliforms per 100 mL. so while both surf spots are just under the minimum requirements for pollution it is advisable not to surf without covering the ears and avoiding swallowing the ocean water at both locations.
Some volunteers felt that if the heavy rains that followed the water testing had occurred earlier the pollution levels probably would have been substantially higher at all the breaks. Blue Water Task Force coordinator Lauren Russo of Charlestown said that she was very pleased at the first turnout of volunteer water testers and appreciated the fact that all the testers had to paddle out in the water early in the morning to get the samples on the 23rd. The next test will take place on February 6th. For more information on volunteering to collect the samples, interested participants are asked to email Lauren at lsrusso@gmail.com.
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In response to the Water Test Results article recently posted, some clarifications should be made regarding the standards and conclusions of the report. It is imperative to the Surfrider Foundation that all information presented be truthful and accurate.
The Rhode Island Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation kicked off the 2010 Blue Water Task Force Testing on January 23, 2010. Fourteen (14) locations were tested which span the shores of Rhode Island, from Westerly to Middletown. The waters were tested for bacteria indicators, which signify the amount of fecal wastes in the water. These impacts may be associated with several factors such as human and animal wastes.
Enterococci Standards: The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) Standard for a single sample from salt water is 104 per 100 mL. The thirty five (35) enterococci per 100 mL standard referenced in the article is the RIDOH standard for the geometric mean (type of average) density, and is therefore not applicable since only one sample has been collected thus far. Therefore, all locations were below standards.
Fecal Coliform Standards: The Rhode Island Chapter of the Blue Water Task Force also collects samples for fecal coliform for historical comparison only. The standard referenced in the article of fourteen (14) fecal coliforms per 100 mL is the RIDOH standard for the Shellfish Waters Programs, and is not applicable to any of the locations tested. Therefore, all locations are below standards and consistent with historical data.
Future Testing: The article also referenced that the next sampling event was to take place on February 6, 2010. Due to the collection of January’s samples at the end of the month and coordination of tide and sunrise, the next event is scheduled for March 6, 2010.
The results of the January testing are favorable and surfers should enjoy the local breaks. However, there are potential risks associated with swimming or surfing after a storm or heavy rain event. Surfers should use caution and be aware of any foul odors, or visual discharges. If you become sick after being in ocean waters and think it may be related to water contamination, please fill out illness forms from the RIDOH http://www.ribeaches.org/complaints.cfm; and the Surfrider Foundation https://www.surfrider.org/oceanillness.asp ; to assist in water monitoring.
The Rhode Island Chapter of the Blue Water Task Force will continue to monitor the locations to ensure safe water conditions. Information related to water quality can be found through the RIDOH www.ribeaches.org/sampling.cfm, University of Rhode Island Watershed Watch Program http://www.uri.edu/ce/wq/ww/, and the Surfrider Foundation http://www.surfrider.org/stateofthebeach/home.asp. We are very pleased with the feedback and interest in the conditions of our local waters. For more information or to get involved please visit www.risurfrider.org.
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