The Environmental Protection Agency this week will begin additional sampling of Lyman Mill and Manton Ponds in the Woonasquatucket River in Providence. The sampling effort, which is expected to take between one and two weeks to complete, will augment similar investigations conducted in 2002 to characterize the sediment deposits in Allendale and Lyman Mill Ponds.
Results are expected later this summer.
The survey team will take samples from ten locations in Lyman Mill Pond and five locations in Manton Pond to be analyzed for a variety of chemicals.
Also this construction season, EPA will make repairs to areas of the fence along Allendale Pond. EPA representatives will be contacting the affected property owners to discuss the specific work anticipated for each area.
The approaching spring weather is an opportunity for the EPA to remind residents of North Providence, Johnston and Providence, and the public to use the Woonasquatucket River responsibly and to follow the “Do’s & Don’t’s for the Woonasquatucket River.”
Responsible uses of the river include:
do not eat fish, turtles, eels or plants from the Woonasquatucket River
do not wade in the shallow water or swimming in the river
avoid coming into contact with exposed sediments in the river
obey the warning signs posted along the river
Walking, running, or bike riding along the river, and paddling a canoe or kayak on the river are safe. However, people should wash thoroughly after any contact with the river water or sediment.
