Five Saipan beach sites red-flagged
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on five beach sites on Saipan after samples collected from these sites were found to contain excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The red-flagged sites are Dai-Ichi Hotel Beach, Drainage #1, Samoa Housing Beach, Hafa Adai Hotel Beach, and Garapan Drainage #3.
DEQ said that samples collected from these locations contained concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria—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. 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,” the agency said in a statement.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday.
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.
