Flat Island in Rhode River Unsafe for Swimming

The following was submitted by Joe Ports, conservation coordinator, West/Rhode Riverkeeper, and edited by Patch.

Wednesday's sampling found Flat Island in the Rhode River exceeded the EPA's single-test threshold for safe swimming.

We had a bit of rain prior to this round of sampling so the cause of this high reading could be runoff. To try and reduce our high bacteria levels remember to pick up after your pets and discourage the feeding of resident waterfowl.

To see our results along with those from our neighboring rivers don't forget to check out our Swim Guide app.

We're here to help so remember, if you're out on the water and see anything weird, report it to us.

For general information about the risks of swimming and other human health issues, see our one-page sheet on the subject by clicking here.

You can also see our water-quality maps generated from our weekly sampling on our website. Click here to check them out!

Thanks for staying informed about water quality on our rivers.