CRC volunteers work with ShoreRivers every week during the summer to monitor enterococci bacteria, as measured by colony forming units (CFUs). Although the bacteria is found naturally in the body and harmless, when excreted into bodies of water it has the potential to cause illness. Changing bacteria levels are caused by different factors, some that can be controlled and some that cannot. For example, leaking septic systems are a major contributor to high bacteria levels. Boat discharges also contribute to the problem. On the other hand, the amount of rainfall, which varies year to year, will also affect results.
2024 saw mixed results for the Corsica. Samples taken at the Centreville Wharf passed the EPA’s standard only 40 percent of the time. And the failures had very large numbers of CFUs. The area is very shallow and has limited tidal flushing, both characteristics that make clear water more difficult to achieve and maintain. The Town of Centreville has recently sited a pump out station at the wharf. Look for it along the boardwalk. On the other hand, the Corsica Sailing Center Yacht Club passed 93 percent of the time and the failures were only marginal. Nearby Conquest Preserve passed 87 percent of the time and failures were not very large.
ShoreRivers will publish a comprehensive report on its entire testing program in October. You can find it at www.shorerivers.org