LAB CONFIRMS ELEVATED E. COLI LEVELS IN LAKE LOWELL
Media Advisory
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has lab test confirmation for elevated E. coli levels exceeding State Water Quality Standards in Lake Lowell. The water sample was taken from the Lower Dam Recreation Area near Lake Lowell Picnic Park. E. coli bacteria is a type of fecal coliform bacteria commonly found in the intestines and feces of animals and humans. If consumed, water containing animal or human feces can be harmful to humans and animals.
- coli infection can, in some rare cases, be fatal. Symptoms include sudden, severe watery diarrhea that may change to bloody stools, abdominal cramping, gas, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and fever.
Elevated E. coli levels can make humans and pets sick. As a reminder, there are some important safety and general use tips to remember if you do plan to recreate at Lake Lowell:
- Don’t ingest the water
- Wash your hands after any contact with the water
- If you decide to enter the water, shower after swimming or wading
- Pick up after your dog
- Keep your pets out of the water
- Don’t feed geese or ducks
DEQ will conduct additional monitoring to determine the extent of the E. coli contamination and to identify the source of the bacteria.
###
Chase Cusack, DEQ
Chase.Cusack@deq.idaho.gov
208.373-0490
Katrina Williams, SWDH
Katrina.Williams@phd3.idaho.gov
208.455.5317 (office)
208.899.1268 (cell)