In a recent report, Sound Rivers, an organization monitoring over 50 river sites across North Carolina, revealed that six locations failed the weekly fecal bacteria test.
Testing and Results
Sound Rivers conducts weekly tests during the summer to assess water quality across North Carolina. For the week ending July 19, 23 sites in the central region near Raleigh passed their tests for E. coli, indicating safe levels of fecal bacteria.
However, six sites, primarily in the eastern part of the state, showed elevated levels of fecal bacteria, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections for humans and pets. The affected sites are:
- Havens Gardens in Washington on the Pamlico River
- Bonner Point in Bath, just off the Pamlico River
- Cotton Patch Landing on Blounts Creek, a Pamlico River tributary southeast of Washington
- River Road in Tarboro along the Tar River
- Slocum Creek, southeast of New Bern on the Neuse River, which failed for the eighth consecutive week due to failing septic systems
- Pierce Creek, near the coast along the Neuse River
Analysis and Impact
The persistent failure at Slocum Creek, attributed to failing septic systems, highlights significant infrastructural challenges. The continuous high levels of bacteria in Pierce Creek near the coast also raise concerns about water safety in more populated recreational areas.
Sound Rivers indicated that recent improvements in many areas could be linked to the lack of rainfall. However, the current heavy rains may lead to more pollutants washing into waterways, potentially reversing these improvements.
“Many tested areas have seen good results in the last few weeks, largely due to minimal rainfall,” Sound Rivers noted. “However, heavy rains some areas are experiencing now can wash pollutants into the waterways.”
The testing not only includes E. coli in freshwater but also enterococci bacteria in saltwater, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of water quality.
The recent findings by Sound Rivers highlight ongoing water quality issues in North Carolina’s rivers, with six sites showing dangerous levels of fecal bacteria. These results call for increased attention to water management and infrastructure maintenance, particularly in areas with failing septic systems.
Importance of Water Filtration
To address water contamination issues, homeowners should consider installing reverse osmosis filtration systems and whole-home water conditioners. These systems can effectively remove contaminants, providing safer water for drinking and recreational activities.
Source: Fox 8