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DEQ raises red-flag on 2 Saipan beaches
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Posted on Mar 19 2009
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on the Central Repair Shop and DPW Channel Bridge and is warning 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 these two sites contained excessive concentrations of enterococci, a fecal indicator bacteria, that exceed 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.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday.
The Division of Environmental Quality analyzed a total of 11 samples from the shore surrounding Managaha this week. Marine Water Reports are also provided at www.deq.gov.mp/section.aspx?secID=4 and http://www.cnmicoralreef.net/wq/beachcloseweeklyresults.htm. Interested individuals and organizations can also receive email notifications of the weekly marine water quality reports. To do so, send an email to environment@deq.gov.mp.
For more information, contact DEQ at 664-8500. [B][I](DEQ)[/I][/B]
