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DEQ raises red flag on 11 sites on Saipan, one on Managaha
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Posted on Feb 02 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on 11 sites on Saipan and one on Managaha Island 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 samples collected from the Tanapag Meeting Hall, Central Repair Shop, DPW Channel Bridge, American Memorial Park, Drainage #1 (Fiesta Resort & Spa drainage), Samoan Housing, Hafa-Adai Hotel, Diamond Hotel, Grand Hotel, CK Dist #4 Lally Beach, and Hopwood School Beach on Saipan and the southeast beach on Managaha Island contained excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria—enterococci—that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards.
These 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.
The agency, meanwhile, didn’t raise any red flags on Tinian and told residents of the island to enjoy its waters through the weekend.
DEQ analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 38 locations on Saipan, 10 on Tinian, and analyzes a total of 11 samples from the shore surrounding Managaha. The agency welcomes all inquiries as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions concerning this matter. (PR)
