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DEQ raises red flags on Saipan, Rota beaches
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Posted on Dec 22 2004
After analyzing water samples collected from various beaches on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, the Division of Environmental Quality raised red flags for a beach on both Saipan and Rota.
In its report, DEQ indicated that samples collected from Jeffries Beach on Saipan and Coral Garden on Rota contained excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria (enterococci) that exceeded the CNMI Marine Quality Standards.
DEQ said the bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water. 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 raised red flags for the two areas and advises the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of the locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified.
DEQ issued a green flag for Tinian’s recreational beaches after samples were found to be in accordance to standards.
DEQ analyzed samples from 10 locations on Tinian, 12 on Saipan’s south and east recreational beaches, and 12 on Rota this week.
“DEQ welcomes all inquiries on the quality of beach water,” DEQ said.
For more information, contact DEQ at 664-8500.
