State recreational water quality officials have issued swimming advisories for two sound-side sites in Carteret County after recent tests showed bacteria levels above state and federal standards. The affected locations are public access points on Sunset Drive and 16th Street along the Morehead City waterfront in Bogue Sound.
According to officials, the monthly running average of water samples from these areas exceeded the standard of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters, based on five samples taken within a 30-day period. Enterococci bacteria are used as indicators for water quality because they are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although not known to cause illness themselves, their presence may signal other harmful organisms that could pose health risks.
“SWIMMING IN THIS AREA IS NOT RECOMMENDED. BACTERIA TESTING INDICATES LEVELS OF CONTAMINATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH. THIS ADVISORY AFFECTS WATERS WITHIN 200’ OF THIS SIGN,” reads the posted advisory notice from the Office of the State Health Director.
The advisories apply only to waters within 200 feet of each sign and do not constitute a beach closing or affect all of Bogue Sound. Officials will continue to monitor and test these sites and will remove advisories when bacteria levels fall below established thresholds.
Throughout the coastal region, state officials sample 224 sites for water quality, with most tested weekly from April through October. During other months, testing is conducted less frequently due to reduced recreational activity.
For additional details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to see a map of testing sites, visit the program’s website or follow its social media accounts.
