An advisory has been issued against swimming at a sound-side location in Beaufort County. State recreational water quality officials detected bacteria levels that surpass the standards set by the state and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The advisory pertains to an area at the public access to Pantego Creek, situated at the intersection of East Main and Tooley Streets in Belhaven. Water sample tests revealed a running monthly average of 37 enterococci per 100 milliliters, exceeding both state and federal standards which are set at a running monthly average of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters based on five samples within a 30-day period.
Enterococci, used for testing, originate from the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although not known to cause illness directly, scientific studies suggest that their presence may indicate other harmful organisms. People who swim or play in waters with elevated bacteria levels face increased risks of gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections.
The advisory is specific to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign and does not constitute a beach closure nor affect the entire Pantego Creek area. The sign reads:
“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 monitoring the site and will remove the advisory once bacteria levels fall below standard thresholds.
Recreational water quality officials conduct sampling at 221 sites across coastal regions weekly from April to October, with reduced frequency during off-peak months when fewer people engage in water activities.
For further information about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view testing site maps, individuals are encouraged to visit the program’s website or follow its social media account.
