Puffer’s Pond Open for Swimming
Puffer's Pond. Photo: amherstma.gov
Source: amherstma.gov
Puffer’s Pond is open again for swimming after closing to swimmers last week, due to high E. Coli readings. The latest test results show that both North and South Beaches are safe for swimming with readings of 16 MPN/100ml at the North Beach and 42/MPN/100 ml at the South Beach. The state’s maximum allowable limit for E. Coli for safe swimming is 235 MPN/100 ml.
The town conducts weekly water quality testing during the swimming season (Memorial Day – Labor Day). Water quality samples are usually taken on Tuesdays and results are typically posted by Wednesday afternoon at www.amherstma.gov/puffers
If testing reveals any cause for concern, such as high levels of E. coli bacteria, the town will post signage at Puffer’s Pond and post alerts on the website and social media.
The Department of Public Health is the entity charged with making the decision about closure for swimming and is the point of contact for questions. The Department of Public Health can be contacted by emailing publichealth@amherstma.gov or calling 413 259 3077.
Why is the south beach twice what the north beach is?