The Miami Canal was established for trade purposes in the early twentieth century. It flows throughout three counties: Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach, from Lake Okeechobee to Downtown Miami.
The Canal is primarily accessible through boat travel so it is recommended that civilians do not swim in the water due to the large amount of boat traffic. The Canal is also relatively close to the main sewage pipes.
According to Miami New Times, a private contractor allegedly hit a 24-inch pipe that burst and leaked sewage into the Miami Canal. It is reported that the canal was flooded with feces, urine, chemicals, etc. There have been 777,000 gallons of wastewater that leaked into the canal.
The leak contaminated the canal, but the more concerning part is that the contaminates eventually ended up downstream, ending at the Miami River. This has contaminated all the bodies of water that intersect the Miami Canal. Some even say this is one of the worst contractor-involved leaks in Miami- Dade County.
This leakage has significantly impacted the Miami ecosystem, potentially detrimental to the environment. It has not only impacted the Miami area but has also leaked sewage into the Biscayne Bay area. The public was advised to stay away from these waters.
According to Local10 News, 5,000 gallons of wastewater led along Patriot Island and has been repaired. In addition, reports show that authorities were able to prevent 2,200 gallons of waste but 2,800 gallons leaked into Biscayne Bay.
Due to the large number of contaminants in the water No-Swim Advisories have been placed on Joia Beach, Venetian Causeway Park, Watson Island Marina, and Yacht Haven Grand Miami Marina.
A press release by Miami-Dade Country authorities stated, “Sampling will be conducted by the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources for the posted waters, and the advisory remains in effect until two consecutive days of clear testing occur.”- 7News Miami.
Authorities will continue to monitor the water over the next few weeks to ensure it is safe for the public.
