Floodwater in the Birds Point floodway contains elevated levels of bacteria, according to limited sampling conducted by the EPA.
However, the EPA test also reveals that E. coli levels are below Missouri’s official standards for safe swimming water. E. coli is an indicator for fecal coliform bacteria.
In addition to the coliform bacteria tests, the EPA is also checking for residue from chemical pesticides and fertilizers, aluminum, and gasoline and diesel fuel. The results from those analyses are still pending, according to an EPA press release.
The EPA still advices people to avoid contact with floodwater if possible.
However, the EPA test also reveals that E. coli levels are below Missouri’s official standards for safe swimming water. E. coli is an indicator for fecal coliform bacteria.
In addition to the coliform bacteria tests, the EPA is also checking for residue from chemical pesticides and fertilizers, aluminum, and gasoline and diesel fuel. The results from those analyses are still pending, according to an EPA press release.
The EPA still advices people to avoid contact with floodwater if possible.
