The Southeastern Vermont Watershed Alliance had the final day of its monitoring program for the summer of 2016 on Aug. 31.
Volunteers collected samples from 30 sites on eight rivers and streams throughout the summer, according to a news release. This year, the Alliance had sites on the West River, Rock River, North Branch Ball Mountain Brook, Williams River (including South Branch and Middle Branch), Saxtons River, Sacketts Brook, and Whetstone Brook.
The days leading up to Aug. 31 were dry and only a few of the sites tested above the “suitability for swimming” standard set by the state of Vermont and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
High bacteria levels are often a result of heavy rains, as water flowing over the ground, particularly impervious surfaces, carries all the bacteria from the land into the stream with it. Because heavy rains can cause spikes in bacteria, it is generally recommended to wait 24 to 48 hours after a significant rainfall before swimming in lakes and streams.
Escherichia coli, more commonly known as E. coli, is a bacterium found in the guts of all warm blooded animals, including humans. Most E. coli won't make a person sick, but sometimes they can become pathogenic and cause illness. Additionally, the presence of E. coli in waters acts as an indicator for the presence of other pathogens.
The Alliance says the huge sampling effort wouldn't be possible without its volunteers. The data provides valuable information about area rivers, and volunteers get to know a particular portion of river and help identify pollution sources.
For more information about monitoring program sites and results and other Connecticut River watershed water quality and recreational information, visit www.ctriver.us.