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Red flag raised on two Saipan beach sites
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Posted on Apr 27 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has red-flagged two beach sites on Saipan—the Tanapag Meeting Hall and South Puerto Rico Dump—after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
DEQ said that samples collected from these locations were found to contain 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.
“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 sites for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified,” the agency said in a statement.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from38 locations on Saipan every Wednesday.
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. (PR)
