High bacteria levels prompt swimming advisories in Southport
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — State officials have issued swimming advisories for two sound-side locations in Southport after testing found bacteria levels above state and federal recreational water quality standards.
One advisory is in effect for the public kayak launch in Cottage Creek at the end of West West Street. The other covers waters along the Cape Fear River at the public beach area next to the municipal pier at the end of South Davis Street.
According to the North Carolina Recreational Water Quality Program, samples collected Aug. 4 and Aug. 5 showed bacteria levels above the action level of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters for Tier 2, non-daily use sites.
Enterococci bacteria are found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. While the bacteria themselves do not necessarily cause illness, state officials say elevated levels can indicate the possible presence of other disease-causing organisms.
People who swim or play in water with bacteria levels above the action level may face an increased risk of gastrointestinal illness or skin infections.
The advisories do not mean the beaches are closed and do not apply to all waters in Southport. Each advisory covers water within 200 feet of the posted warning sign.
State officials said they will continue testing both sites. The advisories will be lifted once bacteria levels fall below state and federal standards.
The North Carolina Recreational Water Quality Program samples 224 coastal sites, most weekly from April through October.
