Baltimore, MD (JK) – The Maryland Department of Health announced that recreational water advisories for portions of the Potomac River in Charles and Prince George’s counties have been lifted, effective immediately.
The advisories had been in place since late January following the Potomac Interceptor sewage spill. Officials say recent water samples collected by the Maryland Department of the Environment show bacteria levels are now within acceptable limits for recreational use in both counties.
Montgomery County’s advisory, issued January 29, remains in effect. Health officials say water testing there continues to show elevated bacteria levels, which is expected because the spill occurred on federal land in that county. Monitoring will continue to determine when the advisory can be lifted.
Health officials say there is still no advisory for the Potomac River in St. Mary’s County, which remains outside the affected plume area. Testing there continues to confirm the water meets recreational safety standards.
Public drinking water has not been impacted by the spill.
State officials also report no evidence that shellfish harvesting waters have been affected. A precautionary closure for a small section of the Potomac River is expected to be lifted March 10 pending final confirmation testing.
With the advisories lifted in Charles and Prince George’s counties, boating and fishing activities can resume in those areas. Officials say there is no evidence that fish or shellfish populations were harmed by the spill.
For the latest on the spill abatement efforts visit MDE Potomac Interceptor Information.
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