An advisory has been issued against swimming at a sound-side site in Dare County due to elevated bacteria levels. State recreational water quality officials have identified that the bacteria levels in the water exceed both state and Environmental Protection Agency standards.
The advisory applies to the sound-side swimming area in Colington Harbour, located at the end of Colington Drive in Kill Devil Hills. Recent test results show a running monthly average of 38 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, surpassing the acceptable standard of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters based on five samples taken over a 30-day period.
Enterococci are used as an indicator for testing because they are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although not directly harmful, these bacteria can signal the presence of other potentially harmful organisms. Swimming or playing in waters with high bacteria levels may increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
It is important to note that this advisory does not equate to a beach closure and does not impact all areas within Kill Devil Hills. The advisory specifically pertains to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign. The sign states:
“ATTENTION
SWIMMING IN THIS AREA IS NOT RECOMMENDED. BACTERIA TESTING INDICATES LEVELS OF CONTAMINATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH. THIS ADVISORY AFFECTS WATERS WITHIN 200’ OF THIS SIGN.
OFFICE OF THE STATE HEALTH DIRECTOR”
State officials will continue monitoring the site and will remove the advisory once bacteria levels fall below established standards.
Recreational water quality officials conduct sampling at 222 sites across coastal regions, primarily on a weekly basis from April through October, with reduced testing during other months when fewer people engage in water activities.
For additional information about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to access a map of testing sites, visit their website and follow their social media account.
