Testing shows recreational swimming areas are at acceptable bacterial levels
(SALUDA, Va.)- THE GOLDMAN CREEK, ROSIER CREEK AND THE POTOMAC WATERFRONT OF
COLONIAL BEACH health advisory issued early on July 7 is no longer in effect. Results of water testing collected on July 6 at six sites in Goldman Creek/Rosier Creek along Bluffs Point to Colonial Beach indicated acceptable levels for recreational swimming to resume.
The advisory was issued to alert the public to the approximate 1.14 million gallons of sewage, which was released overnight between July 3 and July 4, from the Town of Colonial Beach wastewater treatment plant near Goldman Creek and the 205 bridge.
The water testing occurred in partnership between the Town of Colonial Beach, Department of Environmental Quality, and the Department of Health on July 6, 2023 from the area of Goldman/Rosier Creek and the nearby beaches of Colonial Beach were within acceptable bacteria limits for swimming and water recreation.
As a result, the Town of Colonial Beach has rescinded its closure of Town beaches; their announcement can be found at Alert Center • Colonial Beach, VA • CivicEngage (colonialbeachva.gov).
The Virginia Department of Health Division of Shellfish Safety and Waterborne Hazards issued an emergency shellfish closure for a portion of Rosier Creek. This closure can be found at VDH Issues Health Advisory due to Sewage Release in Area of Goldman Creek - Newsroom (virginia.gov)
The Virginia Department of Health and Department of Environmental Quality will continue to collaborate with the Maryland Department of Health to monitor their advisories and ensure consistent public communication about this developing situation.
As always, VDH encourages normal precautions when encountering natural waters. Visit www.SwimHealthyVa.com for ways to stay safe while recreating in natural waterbodies.
