State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side area in Dare County after water tests showed improved bacteria levels. The advisory, issued on June 19, was for the Croatan Sound public access near Manteo due to high bacteria levels detected on June 17 and June 18. These levels exceeded the standard of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters set for recreational coastal waters.
Following new tests, bacteria levels are now below state and federal standards, allowing the removal of warning signs that advised against water activities like swimming and skiing.
Enterococci, used in testing, is not directly harmful but can indicate other pathogens. High levels increase risks of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
North Carolina’s coastal waters are generally clean but require ongoing monitoring. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program regularly samples 222 sites from April through October to ensure safety.
For further details or site maps, visit the program’s website or follow their social media.
