Water Quality Testing

Beach Water Testing - E. Coli & Cyanobacteria

E. Coli - Weekly testing is organized by the City from late May through Labor Day at the following locations: Lake Gardner Beach, Camp Kent, Glen Devin, Lake Attitash Sandy Beach (AALSIA) and Camp Bauercrest.  Results are posted usually on Friday mornings after we have received them from the contracted water testing companies. 

About E. Coli
 E. Coli is an indicator organism of fecal contamination. The natural habitat for E. Coli is the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals. If the E. Coli count is greater than 1000 MPN/100 mL, the beach is closed. If the E. Coli count is greater than 235 MPN/100 mL but less than 1000 MPN/100 mL, an advisory is issued. If the E. Coli count is under 235 MPN/100 mL, the beach has no advisories or warnings issued.

Cyanobacteria - On demand testing will be organized by the City when suspected blooms are reported. Cyanobacteria can often be identified through visual indicators during bloom conditions. For additional information and guidance on visually identifying a bloom, please reference Massachusetts Department of Public Health- Cyanobacteria in Recreational Waters in Massachusetts. 

About Cyanobacteria
 Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms that occur naturally in all water ecosystems. Cyanobacteria are sometimes referred to as blue-green algae, despite being bacteria rather than algae. Under certain environmental conditions (Fig 1) cyanobacteria can experience exponential growth, creating a highly concentrated area of cyanobacteria cells known as a cyanobacteria harmful algae bloom, or cyanoHAB. Because some cyanobacteria can produce cyanotoxins, cyanoHABs can be harmful to human health.

The City of Amesbury will respond to reports of cyanobacteria and will issue public health advisories when necessary. If you identify a bloom, please contact Vinny Tirone, via email at tironev@amebsuryma.gov or by calling 978-388-8129.