State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side area in Onslow County after recent water tests showed bacteria levels are now within safe limits. The public access site at the Intracoastal Waterway at Morris Landing, near Holly Ridge, had been under an advisory since September 24 due to elevated bacteria readings.
The initial warning was based on water samples collected on September 22 and 23, which indicated enterococci levels above the threshold of 104 per 100 milliliters—the standard set by both North Carolina and the Environmental Protection Agency for recreational coastal waters. Subsequent testing revealed that bacteria concentrations have fallen below these standards.
“The advisory was lifted because water testing shows that bacteria levels have dropped below the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s standards set for swimming and water play,” officials stated.
With this change, signs advising against swimming or other contact with the water have been removed from the site.
Enterococci bacteria are commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While not directly linked to illness, their presence can signal other harmful organisms may be present. Health authorities warn that exposure to waters with high bacteria counts increases risks of gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
Coastal recreational waters across North Carolina are generally considered clean. State monitoring continues through the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program, which tests water quality at 224 sites along coastal areas—most on a weekly basis between April and October.
For more information about ongoing testing or to view maps of monitored sites, residents can visit the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program’s website or follow its social media channels.
