After more than six months of closure, Minnie’s Island is reopening following Montgomery County’s decision to lift the remaining health advisory for shoreline areas affected by January’s Potomac Interceptor collapse and sewage leak.
“In light of the statement from Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis, we are pleased to announce that Minnie’s Island is reopened to public access,” said Joseph Saliunas, Board President of the Minnie’s Island Community Conservancy.
The island closed after DC Water’s sewage spill in January contaminated the surrounding water and sediment.
“DC Water’s sewage spill back in January significantly impacted the waters and sediment surrounding Minnie’s Island and caused us to close the island for over six months,” Saliunas said.
Department of Environment Test Results
Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis announced Friday that the county is lifting the remaining health advisory after reviewing the latest sediment testing results from the Maryland Department of the Environment.
The contact advisory for the shoreline and river sediment between Lock 11 and the shoreline surrounding Minnie’s Island has been removed after testing showed bacterial concentrations had returned to acceptable levels.
Residents may now resume recreational use of the area.
Joseph Saliunas, Minnie’s Island Community Conservancy
Reopening
Saliunas said the Conservancy is eager to welcome visitors back to enjoy the island’s wildlife.
“We look forward to sharing the magnificent nature that is in our backyard, such as the mink, river otter and peregrine falcons we have seen over the last month,” he said.
Continue to Exercise Caution
County health officials said water monitoring will continue and reminded the public that the Potomac River naturally contains varying levels of bacteria.
They advise people to avoid swallowing river water and to use extra caution for 48 to 72 hours after heavy rainfall, when bacteria levels can increase. People with open cuts or wounds should also avoid contact with river water or sediment.
Hope for Improved Infrastructure
Saliunas said he hopes the incident prompts investment in aging infrastructure.
“We hope that our public leaders learn from this experience and that they support needed infrastructure improvements that can prevent events like this from happening in the future,” he said.
