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17 Saipan beach sites red-flagged
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Posted on Jul 11 2008
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on 17 beach sites on Saipan after water samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The affected areas are the Tanapag Meeting Hall, DPW Channel Bridge, S. Puerto Rico Dump, Smiling Cove Marina, American Memorial Park, Samoa Housing, Hafa Adai Hotel, Hafa Adai Drainage, Garapan Fishing Dock, Diamond Hotel, Sugar Dock, CK Dist #2 Drainage, CK Dist #4 Drainage, Hopwood School Beach, San Antonio Beach, Pacific Islands Club Beach, and San Antonio Lift Station.
DEQ said that samples collected from these locations contained concentrations of enterococci that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards. However, studies have shown water runoff in tropical environments may also contain these bacteria from the natural environment.
To address public health concerns, DEQ has given these locations a red flag and advises the public not to fish or swim within the 300 feet of these sites for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Saipan’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday. This week, samples were taken from 38 locations on Saipan’s coast.
DEQ welcomes all inquiries as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions.[B][I] (DEQ)[/I][/B]
