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Tinian beach red-flagged
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Posted on Jul 26 2005
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on the Unai Dangkolo beach on Tinian after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
DEQ said that samples taken from the Unai Dangkolo beach showed 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, which may not be directly associated with public health concerns.
“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 the [site] for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified,” DEQ said in a statement.
The agency analyzes samples of marine recreational and storm drainage water from 10 locations on Tinian.
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.
