The EPA has classified two new beach areas of Donegal as bathing waters for the first time.
Dooey and Magheraroarty were classed as ‘Excellent’ as they appeared on the 2018 EPA Bathing Water report which was published today.
Featured image: Magheraroarty by Owen Clarke OC photography
The report studied the quality of bathing waters during the long hot summer of 2018. Overall, 94 per cent of the 145 bathing waters in Ireland met the minimum EU standards last year, with over 100 beaches classified as Excellent.
In Donegal, most bathing waters retained their Excellent quality status. Lady’s Bay in Buncrana improved from Sufficient to Good.
However, Bundoran dropped from Excellent to Good and Lisfannon was downgraded from Good to Sufficient.
See the Identified Bathing Waters in Donegal, as listed on the Environmental Protection Agency | Bathing Water Quality in Ireland 2018 Report:
Speaking on the new report, Jenny Deakin, EPA Senior Scientific Officer, said:
“Ireland has many beautiful beaches and some inland bathing waters with excellent water quality. The report covers the 145 EU identified bathing waters. It also provides information on 72 other waters that are not covered by the legislation that are monitored by the local authorities because bathing or recreational activities take place there.
“During the summer, current water quality information and details of any incidents affecting bathing waters will be displayed on the website www.beaches.ie. If you are heading to the beach with your family or friends, check www.beaches.ie or our Twitter feed @EPABeaches, before heading out.
“Most importantly, when you get to the beach always check the local notice board to be sure the water quality is good before you dip your toe.”
And you’re planning to dip your toe into the clear waters of Magheraroarty, check this video out by Owen Clarke:
