Six Saipan beaches red-flagged

Posted on Jun 05 2008

The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on six beaches on Saipan 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 that samples collected from the Central Repair Shop, DPW Channel Bridge, S. Puerto Rico Dump, Dai Ichi Drainage, Garapan Fishing Dock, and Sugar Dock 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 with public health concerns.

DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainage every Wednesday.

This week, the division analyzed samples taken from 38 locations on Saipan’s coast. DEQ welcomes all inquires as to the quality of the beach waters. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions.

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