The sixth summer season of water quality testing at several local recreational beaches began in June, with Ketchikan Indian Community staff conducting the testing as part of the Ketchikan Beaches
The Ketchikan area accounted for 11 of the 132 — or 14% — of paralytic shellfish poisoning cases confirmed in Alaska between 1993 and 2021, according to an April 21
This year will be the first in which Hoonah s beaches are tested.
The statewide beach program tests bacteria levels in marine water samples from May to September. High bacteria levels in a given sample can indicate that swimming near that body could carry an elevated risk of infection or illness.
Sampling at locations around Ketchikan last summer found elevated levels of fecal coliform and enterococci bacteria in the water, even in the absence of large cruise ship sailings.
The DEC website notes that this year, sampling is being conducted by local non-profits, DEC and tribal entities in cooperation with the local land representatives. Last year, staff from Ketchikan Indian Community helped collect water samples in Ketchikan.
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