Tests found E. coli contamination at 9 sites along Sac river

[WB Staff]

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KCRA) —
Sacramento County is warning residents about high levels of E. coli in the lower American River after testing showed nine of 11 sites were above acceptable EPA levels at some point this year.

E. coli contamination at Tiscornia Beach and Discovery Park’s Steelhead Creek were particularly abhorrent, according to results from the Central Valley Water Board. At times in February and March, E. coli levels were more than seven times the contamination threshold.

So far, no one has reported becoming sick due to the elevated levels, the water board said.

The Sacramento County Health Department plans to place signs warning about the contamination at Tiscornia Beach, the Discovery Park boat launch and the Howe Avenue River Access.

E. coli is often caused by fecal contamination. However, the Sacramento County Health Department has not identified the source of the E. coli found in the American River.

More info and video: http://www.kcra.com/article/american-ri ... i/19846667