An advisory against swimming has been issued for a site in Carteret County due to high bacteria levels found in the water. State recreational water quality officials discovered that the bacteria levels at a public access area to Bogue Sound at Sunset Drive in Morehead City exceed both state and Environmental Protection Agency standards.
The advisory was prompted by test results showing a monthly running average of 41 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, surpassing the acceptable limit of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters based on five samples taken within a month. Enterococci are bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and can indicate the presence of other harmful organisms. Exposure to such waters increases the risk of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
Officials clarified that this is not a beach closure, nor does it affect all areas of Morehead City. The advisory applies only 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.”
State health officials will continue monitoring the site and will remove the warning sign once bacteria levels fall below regulatory standards.
The state’s recreational water quality program tests 222 sites along the coast, primarily from April to October, with reduced testing during off-peak months when fewer people swim.
For further details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view testing site maps, visit their website or follow their social media accounts.
