State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side site in Dare County after recent water testing showed that bacteria levels have dropped below federal and state standards. The advisory had been in effect since August 26 at the Colington Harbour swimming area, located at the end of Colington Drive in Kill Devil Hills.
According to authorities, earlier tests revealed that the monthly average of enterococci bacteria exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency’s limit of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters for high-use sites. Subsequent sampling found that levels are now within acceptable limits, and signs warning against water contact have been removed.
“Enterococci, the bacteria group used for testing, is found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While it is not known to cause illness, scientific studies show that enterococci may indicate the presence of other disease-causing organisms. People swimming or playing in waters with bacteria levels higher than the standards have an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal illness or skin infections,” officials stated.
Coastal recreational waters across North Carolina are typically clean, but regular monitoring remains important to identify any localized concerns. The North Carolina Recreational Water Quality Program samples 224 coastal sites—most on a weekly basis from April through October—to ensure public safety.
More information about this program and maps showing current testing locations can be found on its official website and social media channels.
