MARION – Town Administrator Geoffrey Gorman reports that the Aucoot Cove has been temporarily closed due to elevated levels of bacteria.
A spike in levels of fecal coliform was detected by the Marion Waste Water Treatment Plant during routine testing of water from Aucoot Cove on Dec. 12. These results, received on Dec. 15, were unexpected because sampling from Dec. 11 showed levels well within state-required limits.
Following Town policies and procedures, the Department of Public Works immediately contacted the Marion and Mattapoisett Harbormasters, the state Department of Environmental Protection, and state Division of Marine Fisheries. The Town proactively recommended shutting down Aucoot Cove as a precaution. DMF has recommended a 21-day closure.
Bacteria can enter bodies of water through various sources, including stormwater runoff, malfunctioning septic systems, sewer overflows, wildlife and pet waste, and agricultural runoff.
The investigation into the source of the fecal coliform is ongoing. The contamination mechanism within the facility is currently undergoing a complete maintenance and cleaning to address the increased levels. New test samples will be taken on Dec. 19 and Dec. 20.
The Town intends to reopen the Cove as soon as testing results allow, and will provide updates to the public as new information becomes available.
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