DEQ red-flags waters around Managaha dock

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Posted on Feb 19 2006
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The Division of Environmental Quality has raised a red flag on the waters around the dock in Mangaha Island and advised the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of these locations for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified.

DEQ said samples collected from the location contained excessive 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.

DEQ analyzed a total of 11 samples 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 concerning this matter. (PR)

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