E.coli reports - June & July 2002

Note: Our local Health Unit does not accept lake water samples.

So far this year two lake water samples have been submitted for "bacteriological analysis of drinking water". 

The first sample was collected at the eastern most end of the lake several weeks ago. The report came back with the presence of E.coli and a high level of Total Coliforms.

The second sample was taken near the surface of 6 foot deep water, 10 meters from the north shore across from the large beaver hut at the point near the eastern most end of the lake on July 4. The report is as follows:

  • Total Coliforms: 17 per 100ml (considered unsafe to drink)
  • E.coli: 1 per 100ml (considered evidence of sewage contamination)
The currently acceptable level of Total Coliforms in drinking water is 5 (five). Before Walkerton it was 10 (ten).

The only acceptable level of E.coli in drinking water is 0 (zero).

Both authorities recommended bringing this water to a rolling boil for one minute if using it for:

  • drinking
  • dish washing
  • brushing teeth
  • rinsing salad items
Both authorities stated that E.coli is present in the digestive system of all mammals. This contamination could be due to the high number of beavers in the area, or to run off water contaminated by wild and/or domestic animals such as deer, bears, racoons, dogs and cats.

The testing does not discriminate between different types of E.coli. Some types are far more of a health hazard than others.