Health Alert Issued for Silver Creek Due to High Levels of E. Coli
The swimming area at Coolidge-McClaine Park is not affected by the health alert.
(SILVERTON, Ore. ) — Silverton area citizens are advised to avoid contact with Silver Creek, downstream of the Silverton wastewater treatment plant, due to a high concentration of E. coli bacteria in the water.
Citizens should not swim or fish in the creek until bacteria levels return to normal. E. coli are bacteria whose presence indicates that the water may be contaminated with human or animal wastes.
Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term effects, such as diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms. They may pose a special health risk for infants, young children, some of the elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems.
The wastewater treatment plant is located at 400 Schemmel Lane, which is located to the south of the Silverton High School Pine Street Campus.
The swimming area at Coolidge-McClaine Park is upstream of the plant and is not affected.
For additional information concerning the quality of water in Silver Creek, please contact Steven Starner, Water Quality Supervisor, 503-991-6359.
Source: City of Silverton
