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Red flag raised on 11 Saipan beaches
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Posted on Nov 04 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on 11 beach sites on Saipan after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The affected sites are PauPau Beach, San Roque School Beach, Aqua Resort Hotel Beach, Tanapag Meeting Hall Beach, Central Repair Shop Beach, DPW Channel Bridge, South Puerto Rico Dump, Smiling Cove Marina, Micro Beach, Drainage #1, and the Garapan Fishing Dock.
DEQ said that samples 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,” DEQ said in a statement issued Friday.
DEQ analyzed water samples collected from 38 locations on Saipan on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the division cleared the beaches of Tinian and Managaha Island, giving beaches of both islands a green flag.
The division welcomes all inquiries as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions.
