State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a site in Carteret County after recent tests showed bacteria levels had decreased. The advisory, which was issued on June 4 at the public access to Bogue Sound in Morehead City, was prompted by elevated levels of enterococci bacteria. This type of bacteria is used as an indicator for water quality and is found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals.
The initial advisory was based on tests showing a monthly average of enterococci above the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) standard of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. Following additional testing, it was determined that bacteria levels have now fallen below this threshold, allowing for the removal of warning signs against swimming or other water activities.
While enterococci itself does not cause illness, its presence can indicate other harmful organisms that may lead to gastrointestinal issues or skin infections if people come into contact with contaminated water.
North Carolina’s coastal waters are typically clean, but ongoing monitoring remains essential to address any localized concerns. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts regular sampling at 222 sites along the state’s coast from April through October.
For further details about the program or to view testing site maps, individuals are encouraged to visit the program’s website and follow their social media updates.
