Is the Russian River safe for swimming?
Summer is here, and the Russian River is a favorite spot for cooling off. But is it really safe to take a dip? The answer is complicated. Recent water quality tests reveal a mixed picture. Coliform bacteria are a group of microorganisms commonly found in the environment, including human and animal feces. The US EPA recommends that fresh recreational water for body contact have fewer than 126 colonies per 100 milliliters (mL). … High levels of coliform bacteria, including E. coli, pose significant health risks. Ingesting contaminated water or exposing open wounds can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses and skin infections. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe conditions requiring medical attention. A key culprit is the aging and failing septic systems along the lower Russian River, particularly between Guerneville and Monte Rio.
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