An advisory has been issued against swimming at a sound-side site in Brunswick County due to elevated bacteria levels. State officials have determined that the water at the public kayak launch in Cottage Creek, Southport, contains bacteria exceeding both state and Environmental Protection Agency recreational water quality standards.
Water samples taken on May 20 and May 21 revealed bacteria levels surpassing the action threshold of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters for Tier 2 non-daily use sites. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts these tests as part of its mandate under federal and state regulations. Enterococci, while not directly causing illness, can indicate the presence of harmful pathogens that may lead to gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
This advisory does not signify a beach closure nor does it impact the entire Southport area; it is limited to waters within 200 feet of the posted sign. The warning 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”
Officials will continue monitoring the site and will remove the advisory once bacteria levels fall below established safety standards.
The state’s recreational water quality officials regularly sample 222 sites along the coast from April through October, with reduced testing during colder months.
For further details on the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view testing locations, visit their website or follow their social media updates.
