An advisory warning has been issued against swimming at a sound-side location in Dare County. State recreational water quality officials found that bacteria levels in the water exceeded both state and Environmental Protection Agency standards.
The affected area is at the Jockey’s Ridge Sound-side Access in Nags Head. Recent test results show a running monthly average of 48 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, surpassing the regulated standard of a 35 enterococci average over a 30-day period.
Enterococci, a bacteria group tested in water quality assessments, originates from the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although it is not directly linked to causing illnesses, scientific research suggests that it may indicate the presence of other harmful organisms. Exposure to waters with high bacteria levels increases the risk of gastrointestinal diseases and skin infections.
The advisory does not entail a beach closing nor does it affect the entire Nags Head area. It is specific to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign, which warns:
“ATTENTION 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. OFFICE OF THE STATE HEALTH DIRECTOR”
State officials will continue to monitor the site and will remove the advisory when bacteria levels return to acceptable standards.
The state conducts regular testing at 221 sites along the coastal region, mostly weekly from April to October. Testing is less frequent during the off-peak seasons.
Further details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program and a map of testing locations can be accessed on the program’s official website and social media channels.
