Ventnor and Atlantic City were cited this week as having unhealthy water conditions over the past few days. This forced local officials to temporarily banning swimming in the area. The closures apply to swimming, wading and playing in the surf. Margate was affected last week, but as of July 26….Margate water quality has been OK.
Swimming is banned if two consecutive water sample tests are deemed to have high levels of bacteria. Closings remain in effect until bacteria levels are reduced.
Dangerous bacteria affecting Margate, Ventnor and Atlantic City can come from storm run-off, bird droppings and off-shore dredging.
Recent dune building in Atlantic City, Ventnor and Margate can contribute to the heightened levels of contamination. Under-water mining of sand used for state mandated beach replenishment can disturb and uncover buried impurities and other contaminants. These potentially toxic elements are then pumped onto the beaches to form dunes and widened beaches.
Ventnor ocean water was seriously contaminated on JULY 26. All swimming was banned for 24 hours.
Ocean Water Quality Index > Excellent 0-26, Very Good 27-52, Good 53-78, Fair 79-104, Poor 104 and above. No Swimming Allowed at 130 and above. Water quality readings from JULY 26:
- Atlantic City 129
- Brigantine 12
- Longport 6
- Margate 15
- Ventnor 204