Wastewater testing reveals high levels of cocaine in Nantucket, Massachusetts
Up to three times national average of metabolite produced by human use of drug was found in town’s wastewater
TL;DR
- Wastewater tests in Nantucket, Massachusetts, detected cocaine levels up to three times the national average.
- Levels surged significantly in October and December, reaching "dangerous amounts" according to town officials.
- The presence of cocaine metabolites suggests human use, but officials also noted evidence of the drug being dumped into the water system.
- Fentanyl and methamphetamine levels were found to be below regional and national averages.
- The data is being used to guide evidence-based interventions and behavioral health support in the community, which quadruples in population during the summer.
- Nantucket is a popular, upscale summer resort known for its celebrity and political visitors.