State recreational water quality officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side site in Dare County. The decision comes after water testing indicated that bacteria levels have fallen below the standards set by both the state and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safe swimming and water play.
The advisory was initially posted on June 10 at the Colington Harbour swimming area, located at the end of Colington Drive in Kill Devil Hills. Testing had shown that the monthly average of enterococci bacteria exceeded the EPA’s threshold of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, which is the standard for high-use sites. However, recent tests reveal that bacteria levels are now within acceptable limits, leading to the removal of signs advising against contact with the water.
Enterococci are bacteria found in warm-blooded animals’ intestines. While not directly causing illness, they can indicate other harmful organisms’ presence. Exposure to waters with high bacteria levels increases risks of gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections.
North Carolina’s coastal recreational waters are generally clean, but ongoing monitoring is crucial to address any localized issues promptly. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program samples 223 coastal sites regularly from April through October.
For further details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to access a map of testing locations, visit their website or follow their social media accounts.
