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7 Saipan beaches red-flagged
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Posted on Nov 10 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on seven beach sites on Saipan after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The affected sites are the Grotto Cave, Bird Island Beach, Jeffrey’s Beach, Old Man By The Sea, Hidden Beach, North Laulau Beach, and South Laulau Beach.
Samples collected from these locations contained excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria (enterococci) that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards. These bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water. However, studies have shown that storm water runoff in tropical environments may also contain these bacteria from the natural environment.
“Therefore, in order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given the following locations a red flag and advises the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of these locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified,” DEQ said.
DEQ analyzed water samples collected from Saipan’s east and south recreational beaches this week.
DEQ welcomes all inquiries as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions. [B][I](PR)[/I][/B]
