State recreational water quality officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side site in Dare County. This decision comes after recent tests indicated that bacteria levels have decreased below the standards set by both the state and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safe swimming and water activities.
The advisory, which was issued on June 10, affected the sound-side swimming area in Colington Harbour, located at the end of Colington Drive in Kill Devil Hills. Initial water testing had shown that the monthly average of enterococci bacteria exceeded the EPA’s limit of 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water, a standard applicable to high-use sites. Subsequent tests revealed that bacteria levels have since fallen below this threshold, leading to the removal of signs advising against swimming or other contact with the water.
Enterococci are bacteria typically found in warm-blooded animals’ intestines. Although not directly known to cause illness, they can indicate potential presence of other harmful organisms. Swimming or engaging in water activities where these bacteria exceed recommended levels may increase risks of gastrointestinal illnesses or skin infections.
North Carolina’s coastal recreational waters are generally clean but require regular monitoring to address any localized issues promptly. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts sampling at 223 coastal sites across the state, mostly on a weekly basis from April through October.
Further details about this program and maps of testing locations can be accessed via its website and social media channels.
