Public Health Warnings

Effective July 6, 2022, the Newburyport Board of Health will issue Public Health Warnings for combined sewage overflows (CSOs) that occur within the Merrimack River pursuant to 314 CMR 16.09. All warnings issued will be posted here as well as at public access points to the water. 

During the summer bathing season, the Health Department also conducts weekly water quality tests at the City's beaches. For more information, please click here. 

CSO ALERT APRIL 4, 2024- ENDED

The City of Newburyport Health Department has issued a Public Health Warning due to CSOs that occurred in upriver facilities 

STARTED: April 4th 2024, 11:50 am

ENDED:  April 4th 2024, 2:15 pm

CSO discharges consist, or likely consist, of untreated or partially treated sewage and waste. Public health officials recommend avoiding contact with water bodies during rainstorms and for 48 hours afterward, as there may be increased health risks due to bacteria or other pollutants associated with urban stormwater runoff or discharges of untreated or partially treated wastewater. 

CSO NOTIFICATIONS:  To view the CSO map which provides near real-time information (5-minute intervals) on CSO activation status, where they occur, how often and how long they occur. Click here:   AQUASIGHT 

For more information on beach water quality testing, please visit www.cityofnewburyport.com/beachtesting.

For more information on shellfish closures, please visit www.mass.gov/shellfish-sanitation-and-management.