BOSTON (June 5, 2024) – As warmer weather arrives in New England, many residents seek places to cool off and swim. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds the public to use the Woonasquatucket River responsibly due to potential health risks from contamination. Residents of North Providence, Johnston, and Providence in Rhode Island should be particularly cautious.
The EPA advises:
- Don't eat fish, turtles, eels, other wildlife or plants from the Woonasquatucket River.
- Don't wade in shallow water or swim in the river.
- Don't dig into the riverbanks.
- Do obey the warning signs posted along the river.
Although progress has been made in cleaning up dioxin-contaminated areas, vigilance is still necessary. Parents, teachers, and camp counselors are urged to protect children from remaining contaminants in the water, sediment, and soil. Safe activities include walking, running, bike riding along the river, and paddling a canoe or kayak on it. However, thorough washing after any contact with river water, sediment, or soil is recommended.
The site is currently in the Remedial Action Phase of cleanup. Implementation of the cleanup plan began in 2019 under EPA and RIDEM oversight. The recently released 2022 Annual Report on the Centredale Manor Restoration Project Superfund Site provides updates on various sections including Source Area, Allendale Pond, Lyman Mill Stream Sediment and Floodplain Soil (Including Oxbow), and Lyman Mill Pond.
More information on the Woonasquatucket River and Centredale Manor cleanup can be found at www.epa.gov/superfund/centredale.
Learn more about the latest EPA news & events in New England: www.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-1-new-england
