State officials have lifted swimming advisories for four sound-side sites in Beaufort County after recent tests showed bacteria levels have fallen below the standards set by both the state and the Environmental Protection Agency. The advisories, which were posted on June 19, affected areas in the Pamlico River near Washington.
The specific locations included the railroad trestle near downtown, public access at Haven Gardens Park off Park Drive, access off Christian Service Camp Road, and access off Camp Hardee Road. Initial water samples taken on June 17 and June 18 revealed bacteria levels exceeding 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. However, subsequent testing on June 23 indicated that bacteria levels had decreased to safe levels.
Enterococci, a bacteria group used for water quality testing, is typically found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although not directly harmful, its presence can suggest other disease-causing organisms might be present. Exposure to waters with high bacteria levels can increase risks of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
Coastal recreational waters in North Carolina are generally considered clean, but ongoing monitoring remains crucial to identify any localized issues. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program conducts regular sampling at 222 coastal sites across the state from April through October.
For further details about the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program or to view a map of testing sites, individuals are encouraged to visit their website or follow their social media accounts.
