State officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side area in Onslow County after recent water tests showed bacteria levels had returned to acceptable standards. The advisory, which was issued on September 24, applied to the public access at the Intracoastal Waterway at Morris Landing near Holly Ridge.
According to state recreational water quality officials, “The advisory was lifted because water testing shows that bacteria levels have dropped below the state’s and Environmental Protection Agency’s standards set for swimming and water play.”
Initial test results from samples taken on September 22 and 23 indicated that enterococci bacteria levels exceeded 104 per 100 milliliters of water, surpassing the threshold for recreational use in coastal waters. Following subsequent testing, officials reported that bacteria concentrations now fall below both state and federal standards.
As a result, “The sign advising against swimming, skiing or otherwise coming into contact with the water has been removed,” according to the statement.
Enterococci are used as indicators during testing. While not known to cause illness themselves, their presence can signal other harmful organisms. Health risks associated with high bacteria counts include gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
Officials noted that coastal recreational waters in North Carolina are generally clean but emphasized ongoing monitoring efforts. The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program regularly samples 224 sites along the coast, with most locations tested weekly between April and October.
For more information about the program or to view maps of testing sites, residents can visit the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program website or follow its social media accounts.
