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Red flag up at Managaha
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Posted on Mar 07 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag at a section of the Managaha Island near the dock after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria (enterococci).
DEQ said the samples showed concentrations of bacteria that exceeded the CNMI 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.
“In order to adequately address public health concerns, DEQ has given this location a red flag and advises the public not to fish or swim within 300 feet of this site for the next 48 hours or until otherwise notified,” the agency said in a statement.
Meanwhile, DEQ has also analyzed water samples collected from Tinian’s recreational beaches and storm water drainages this week as part of the regularly scheduled sampling. None of the samples collected contained excessive concentration of fecal indicator bacteria.
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)
