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Red flag raised on 9 Saipan beach sites
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Posted on May 13 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on nine beach sites on Saipan after samples showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria at these beaches.
The affected sites are Wing Beach, Paupau Beach, DPW Channel Bridge, South Puerto Rico Dump, Outer Cove Marina, Samoa Housing Beach, Garapan Fishing Dock, Garapan Beach, and Chalan Laulau Beach.
The agency said that samples collected from these locations were found to contain concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria—fecal coliform and enterococci—that exceeded the CNMI Marine Water Quality Standards.
“These bacteria can indicate the presence of human and animal waste in the water. Therefore, in order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given the[se] 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 said.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from 38 locations on Saipan’s coast every Wednesday.
Meanwhile, DEQ assigned a green flag to all beach sites on Rota after samples showed no excessive concentration of fecal indicator bacteria.
The agency analyzes water samples collected from Rota’s recreational beaches and storm drainages every month as part of the regularly scheduled sampling. Samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water are collected from 12 locations on Rota.
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.
