State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side site in Dare County after recent water tests showed improved conditions. The advisory, which was issued on May 15 at Jockey’s Ridge Sound-side Access in Nags Head, was prompted by elevated levels of enterococci bacteria.
Testing had revealed that the monthly average of enterococci exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency’s threshold of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. This level is set for high-use sites to ensure safety during swimming and other water activities. However, subsequent testing indicated that bacteria levels have now fallen below this standard, allowing for the removal of warning signs against swimming or other contact with the water.
Enterococci are typically found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and serve as an indicator for potential disease-causing organisms. While not directly harmful, higher concentrations can signal increased risks of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections from water exposure.
North Carolina’s coastal recreational waters are generally considered clean, but monitoring remains crucial to address any localized issues promptly. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts regular sampling at 222 coastal sites across the state, primarily on a weekly basis from April through October.
For further details about the program or to access a map of testing locations, individuals are encouraged to visit the program’s website and follow its social media updates.
