State recreational water quality officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side site in Beaufort County. The decision comes after tests indicated that bacteria levels have fallen below the standards set by both the state and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safe swimming and water activities.
The advisory was initially issued on June 18 at the public access point to Pantego Creek, located at East Main and Tooley streets in Belhaven. This action followed tests revealing that the monthly average of enterococci bacteria exceeded the EPA’s limit of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, which is the standard for high-use sites. Subsequent tests confirmed that bacteria levels are now within acceptable limits.
Enterococci are bacteria found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While not directly harmful, they can indicate the presence of other pathogens. Swimming or playing in waters with elevated bacteria levels increases the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections.
North Carolina’s coastal recreational waters are generally clean, but continuous monitoring is crucial to address any localized issues promptly. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts regular sampling at 223 coastal sites, primarily on a weekly basis from April through October.
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.
