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Red flag up on 4 Saipan sites
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Posted on Jun 25 2004
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on four beach sites on Saipan after samples taken from these places were found to contain excessive concentrations of the fecal indicator bacteria enterococci.
The locations are South Puerto Rico Dump, Drainage #1, Garapan Fishing Dock, and Sugar Dock.
The DEQ said that samples collected from these sites contained concentrations of 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,” the agency said in a statement.
In order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ is advising the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of these locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified.
DEQ analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 38 locations on Saipan’s coast every Wednesday.
On Tinian, none of the samples collected contained excessive concentration of fecal indicator bacteria. Therefore, DEQ assigns all of the sampled beach sites a green flag. “Enjoy our waters,” the agency said.
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.
