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Red flag up on 5 beach areas
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Posted on Apr 06 2001
The Division of Environmental Quality raised the red flag in five beach areas on Saipan due to excessive concentrations of two fecal indicator bacteria, which exceeded the CNMI Water Quality Standards.
DEQ said samples collected from Central Repair Shop, DPW Channel Bridge, Garapan Fishing Dock, Drainage #1, Drainage #2 contained excessive concentrations of fecal coliform and Enterococci.
These bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water.
“Therefore, in order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given these 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,” said DEQ
However, DEQ said studies have shown that storm water runoff in tropical environments may also contain these bacteria from the natural environment, which may not be directly associated with public health concerns.
DEQ analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 33 locations on the Saipan’s Coast. DEQ welcomes all inquires as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions.
