An edition of: WaterAtlas.orgPresented By: USF Water Institute

Water-Related News

Swimming still discouraged in Palma Sola Bay, but residents can drink from the tap

MANATEE – A “No Skin Contact” advisory is still in effect days after a force main break leaked around 3 million gallons of wastewater, some of which is said to have entered Palma Sola Bay.

Manatee County Utilities Department and the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County are each testing the waters around the bay, located between Manatee Avenue West and Cortez Road West near Anna Maria Island.

While utilities public affairs liaison Amy Pilson said that the bay and causeway “was not impacted,” health department communications director Tom Iovino said the levels have improved, but have not reached the safety standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The boil water notice for residents in an area between 75th Street West and Palma Sola Boulevard from Alhambra Drive to 19th Avenue West has been lifted.