Four Saipan sites red-flagged

Posted on Jul 16 2004

The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on four beach sites on Saipan: Jeffry’s Beach, Obyan Beach, Ladder Beach, and Hidden Beach.

DEQ said that samples collected from these locations contained 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.

“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 locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified.

DEQ analyzed water samples collected from Saipan’s east and south recreational beaches this week.

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 concerning this matter.

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