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Five Saipan beaches red-flagged
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Posted on Apr 18 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on five beach sites on Saipan after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
Affected beaches are those at the DPW Channel Bridge, South Puerto Rico dump, American Memorial Park drainage, Hyatt Regency Saipan, and Dai-Ichi Hotel Saipan Beach.
DEQ said that samples collected from these locations contained 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[se] 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.
Meanwhile, the DEQ has green-flagged the beaches on Rota and Managaha Island.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday. On Rota, it analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 12 locations.
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.
