Swimming advisory lifted for Cottage Creek site in Brunswick County
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — State recreational water quality officials have lifted a swimming advisory for a sound-side recreational area in Brunswick County after recent testing showed bacteria levels have returned to safe levels for swimming and water activities.
The advisory, which had been in place since June 11, affected the public kayak launch in Cottage Creek at the end of West West Street in Southport. State officials issued the warning after water samples collected on June 9 and June 10 showed elevated levels of enterococci bacteria, exceeding the state standard of 104 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water for recreational coastal waters.
New water samples collected on June 16 found bacteria levels below state and federal recreational water quality standards, prompting officials to remove the advisory and warning signs from the site.
The advisory had recommended against swimming, water skiing, and other activities involving direct contact with the water while elevated bacteria levels were present.
Enterococci bacteria are commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Although the bacteria themselves are not generally known to cause illness, they can indicate the possible presence of other harmful microorganisms. Exposure to waters with elevated bacteria levels can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections.
North Carolina’s coastal waters are generally considered safe and clean for recreation. However, state officials emphasize the importance of regular monitoring to identify and address localized water quality concerns.
The N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program monitors 224 coastal sites across the state, with most locations tested weekly from April through October.
Residents and visitors can check current advisories, water quality testing results, and site locations through the N.C. Recreational Water Quality Program.
