E. coli Detected at Folsom Lake Recreation Area, Visitors Urged to Use Caution

Visitors to Folsom Lake are being urged to use caution after elevated levels of E. coli bacteria were detected at several popular recreation areas, according to California State Parks.

The Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board found

...elevated bacteria levels at Willow Creek Day Use Area, Nimbus Flats, and Black Miners Bar Day Use Beach after water samples collected in late June showed higher concentrations near the shoreline.

Elevated E. coli levels can indicate fecal contamination in the water and may increase the risk of illness for people who accidentally swallow contaminated water. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, state officials said elevated levels warrant extra caution.

California State Parks and the water board are also continuing to monitor for harmful algal blooms, also known as cyanobacteria. Harmful algal blooms are a separate water quality concern and can pose health risks to people, pets, and wildlife.

Officials recommend visitors take the following precautions while recreating at lakes and rivers:

• Do not drink water directly from lakes or rivers.
• Avoid swimming with open cuts or wounds.
• Shower after swimming or other water activities.
• Rinse pets with clean water after they have been in the lake or river.
• Keep dogs from drinking lake water or ingesting algae, as they are especially vulnerable.
  

Water quality testing will continue throughout the summer. Weekly results are available through California's recreational water quality monitoring program.

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