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DEQ raises red flag on Tanapag beach
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Posted on Apr 19 2002
The Division of Environmental Quality reported that samples collected from the beach near the Tanapag Meeting Hall on Saipan contained excessive concentrations of two fecal indicator bacteria.
DEQ said water samples taken from the said Tanapag beach contained high concentrations of fecal coliform and Enterococci that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards.
These bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water, DEQ said.
“Therefore, in order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given this 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,” stated an advisory from DEQ.
It added that the 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 32 locations on 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 for more information.
