Swimming Advisory Issued in Salvo Due to Elevated Bacteria Levels
Salvo, North Carolina – A friendly reminder to all beachgoers that not every splash is a safe splash! Today, officials from Dare County have issued an advisory against swimming at the Salvo Day Use Area, which sits beautifully on the sound across from ramp #23 along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This advisory comes after state tests revealed that bacteria levels in the water have exceeded both state and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recreational water quality standards.
What’s Going On?
The advisory was prompted by recent water quality tests conducted on October 1 and October 2, which showed that levels of enterococci bacteria were above the action level of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters. Enterococci is a harmless bacteria group typically found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. However, its presence can suggest that harmful organisms are also lurking nearby. While the bacteria itself doesn’t usually cause illness, swimming in water with high levels can elevate one’s risk of gastrointestinal issues or skin infections.
Now, here’s what you need to know: this swimming advisory is not a full beach closure. The flagged area is specifically the waters situated within 200 feet of the posted sign, which reads: “ATTENTION: SWIMMING IN THIS AREA IS NOT RECOMMENDED. BACTERIA TESTING INDICATES LEVELS OF CONTAMINATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR HEALTH.” So, while it’s important to heed the warning if you’re planning on a dip close to shore, it doesn’t mean you need to pack away your beach towels just yet!
How Are Test Levels Monitored?
The North Carolina Recreational Water Quality Program plays a vital role in keeping our waters safe. They actively monitor around 221 sites across the region, including ocean and sound beaches. Most of these areas are tested weekly from April to October, ensuring that our summer fun doesn’t turn into a health risk. After October, the testing frequency decreases as water temperatures dip.
Officials are dedicated to maintaining public health and will continue to monitor water samples from the Salvo site. They have assured the community that they will remove the advisory and notify everyone once bacteria levels return to safe standards – allowing swimmers to enjoy the warm waters once again.
What Should You Do?
If you were looking forward to a swim in Salvo, it might be a good idea to hold off until further notice. For those planning beach outings in the area, consider staying informed about the water quality. The Recreational Water Quality Program maintains a website filled with resources, including a map of testing sites, so you know where it’s safe to splash around. They also provide updates via social media, so consider giving their Twitter feed a follow!
In conclusion, while the advisory is not ideal for those looking to cool off in the water, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and health. Let’s work together to keep everyone informed and healthy. So, pack your buckets and shovels for some sandy shoreline fun instead, and keep checking back for updates – soon, we’ll be back to enjoying those refreshing summer swims!
