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Red flag raised on Tinian beach
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Posted on Jun 28 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on Kammer Beach on Tinian after samples collected from the site showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
DEQ said that samples collected from Kammer Beach contained concentrations of the enterococci bacteria 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 location 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,” the agency said.
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.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from Tinian’s recreational beaches and storm drainages this week. The agency analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 10 locations on Tinian.
Meantime, DEQ cleared Managaha’s reception beach and dock, saying that none of the samples collected on the island contained excessive concentration of fecal indicator bacteria.
The division analyzed a total 11 sample from the shore surrounding Managaha 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.
