State recreational water quality officials have lifted a swimming advisory at a site in Carteret County. This decision comes after tests indicated that bacteria levels had decreased below the standards set by the state and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safe swimming and water activities.
The advisory, originally posted on June 4, was in effect at Bogue Sound’s public access point at 16th Street in Morehead City. Initial tests revealed that the monthly average of enterococci bacteria exceeded the EPA’s standard of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters, applicable to high-use sites. Recent testing confirmed that bacteria levels are now within acceptable limits, leading to the removal of signs warning against swimming and other water contact activities.
Enterococci bacteria, commonly found in warm-blooded animals’ intestines, are not known to cause illness directly but may indicate the presence of other harmful organisms. Elevated bacteria levels can increase risks of gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections for individuals engaging in water activities.
North Carolina’s coastal waters are typically clean, but ongoing monitoring is essential to identify any localized issues promptly. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program oversees sampling at 222 coastal sites throughout the state, with most locations tested weekly from April through October.
For further details on testing sites or information about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program, individuals can visit their website or follow their social media updates.
