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DEQ raises red flag on two Rita beaches
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Posted on Feb 20 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has given the West Harbor Marina & Dist. #2 Drainage on Rota 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 analyzed water samples collected from Rota’s recreational beaches and storm drainage’s every week.
Samples collected from West Harbor Marina & Dist. #2 Drainage contained excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria, or enterococci, that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water 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, which may not be directly associated with public health concerns.
DEQ analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 12 locations on Rota. 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 concerning this matter.
