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Tanapag beach red-flagged
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Posted on Mar 11 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has red-flagged the beachside of the Tanapag Meeting Hall after samples collected from the location were found to contain excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
In a statement issued yesterday, DEQ said that water samples taken from the Tanapag Meeting Hall beach had excessive concentrations of fecal coliform and enterococci bacteria that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards.
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 the location 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 analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday. It analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 38 locations on the Saipan’s Coast.
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.
