Nantucket to Begin Sewage Testing for Drug Use

In an effort to better understand substance use trends among residents, Nantucket officials announced plans to analyze wastewater for traces of drugs including cocaine, fentanyl, opiates, methamphetamine, and nicotine. This initiative aims to identify periods of increased drug activity, such as during holidays or seasonal peaks, to optimize outreach and recovery efforts.

The testing will be conducted at the Surfside Wastewater Treatment Facility by Biobot, a company specializing in wastewater epidemiology, starting later this month. The data collected could support partnerships with local rehab centers and healthcare providers, enabling targeted assistance for those struggling with addiction.

“Having concrete data gives us a clearer picture of drug use patterns,” said Jerico Mele, the town’s human services director. “If we understand better when and how often drugs are being used, we can develop more effective interventions and track their success over time.”

This marks Nantucket’s second major wastewater study; since 2020, the island has been testing for COVID-19 weekly. While the new drug data will probably remain confidential, it is expected to enhance local efforts to address drug-related issues.