State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side area in Carteret County, following water tests that confirmed bacteria levels have fallen below state and federal standards. The advisory, which was issued on May 30, applied to the public area west of the Atlantic Beach High-rise Bridge in Bogue Sound.
Initial tests conducted on May 28 and May 29 showed bacteria levels exceeding the standard of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. Enterococci are bacteria found in warm-blooded animals’ intestines and can indicate other harmful organisms’ presence. While not directly causing illness, high levels increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
The advisory sign advising against swimming or contact with the water has been removed after recent tests showed safe bacteria levels. “Coastal recreational waters in North Carolina are generally clean,” officials noted, emphasizing ongoing monitoring to address any localized issues.
The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program oversees sampling at 222 coastal sites, primarily from April through October. For further details or site maps, visit their website or social media accounts.
