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8 Saipan beach sites red-flagged
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Posted on Mar 24 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on eight beach sites on Saipan after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The affected sites are the Sea Plane Ramp, DPW Channel Bridge, South Puerto Rico Dump, Drainage #1 (Fiesta Resort drainage), Hafa Adai Hotel, Drainage #2 (Hafa Adai Hotel drainage), Sugar Dock, and Chalan Kanoa District #2 drainage.
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 may 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.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s east, west and south recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday.
For more information, contact DEQ at 664-8500. (PR)
