💧 Water and Power · St. Croix, VI
WAPA said initial St. Croix reddish-brown water sampling was completed
Official document: https://www.viwapa.vi/docs/default-source/2023-pr/press-release-(10.10.23)-authority-announces-brown-water-sampling-on-st.-croix-has-concluded-(1).pdf?sfvrsn=b700d783_3
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority said on October 10, 2023, that the initial round of an extended sampling plan tied to reddish-brown water on St. Croix had been completed.
WAPA said samples were collected at 65 locations in its water distribution system, including 16 neighborhoods it had previously identified as the most affected. The sampling effort involved the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, and the University of the Virgin Islands.
According to the authority, WAPA tested samples for bacteria, pH, chlorine levels, turbidity, phosphate and iron. UVI conducted bacteria testing and collected samples that were sent to the EPA Region 2 laboratory in New Jersey for testing of 13 metals regulated under federal drinking water standards.
WAPA said the participating labs expected results within one to two weeks of October 10, 2023. The authority said EPA, DPNR and WAPA planned to release the findings and recommendations to the public after the results were reviewed.
WAPA also said it planned to hold an information session on October 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of Fort Frederik to distribute handouts and answer questions about the discolored water.