NEWBURYPORT – Mayor Sean Reardon and the Newburyport Health Department announce that a Public Health Warning has been issued following a combined sewer overflow into the Merrimack River.
The cities of Lawrence, Lowell, and Haverhill all reported overflows in the early morning hours of Tuesday, July 19. These overflows contain stormwater, untreated or partially treated human and industrial waste, toxic materials, and debris, rendering the Merrimack River unsafe. The Health Department recommends that the public, including pets, avoid contact with the Merrimack River for at least the next 48 hours due to increased health risks from bacteria and other pollutants.
The City does not use the Merrimack River as a source of drinking water.
Temporary warning signs will be posted along Merrimack River public access points including Moseley Woods, Cashman Park, Harbormaster, Joppa Flats, and Plum Island.
The Health Department will conduct water testing in conjunction with the Harbormaster and other City departments to ensure the safety of the public.
Updates will be posted on the City website. Those with specific questions are asked to contact the Health Department at 978-465-4410.
For more information on beach water quality testing, please visit www.cityofnewburyport.com/beachtesting.
For more information on shellfish closures, please visit www.mass.gov/shellfish-sanitation-and-management.
