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Red flag raised on 3 beaches
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Posted on Apr 22 2006
The Division of Environmental Quality has raised the red flag on three beach sites on Saipan after samples collected showed excessive concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria.
The affected sites are the Wing Beach, the South Puerto Rico Dump, and the Garapan Beach Drainage.
DEQ said that beach water samples from these locations contained 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 following 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,” the division said in a statement.
DEQ analyzes water samples collected from 38 locations on Saipan’s east, west and south recreational beaches and storm drainages every Wednesday.
The division welcomes all inquiries as to the quality of the beach water. The public is encouraged to contact DEQ at 664-8500 with any questions. (PR)
