Bacteria sampling of Bear Creek in Denver is conducted near the western parking lot of Bear Creek Park. Weekly sampling of this location in 2010 was initiated June 3rd and will continue through September. Bi-weekly to monthly sampling will be conducted through the rest of the year. The state's water quality guidance for bacteria is based on E. coli concentrations, which are measured in "colony forming units" (cfu) per 100 milliliters (ml). Values exceeding 235 cfu/100ml are considered the advisory levels beyond which there is an increased likelihood of bacterial related illness with body contact.
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Most Recent Monitoring Results
The sampling locations are located in Bear Creek at Bear Creek Park. The most recent sample results from this site include the following:
2010 Monitoring Results
The 2010 monitoring results in Bear Creek indicate increasing levels through the summer. Warm temperatures coupled with rainfall events often result in elevated bacteria levels. The elevated levels on July 21st, July 29th, and September 23rd were all measured following rainfall within the Bear Creek watershed. People should always use caution when recreating near any surface waters and be aware that there can often be elevated bacteria levels regardless of where you are, but particularly in the urban environment.
Elevated bacteria levels may occur at any time and can cause illness.
When E. coli levels exceed the state guidance level of 235 cfu/100ml, there is an elevated risk of sickness as a result of water intake. Typical symptoms include nausea and gastrointestinal issues.
It is planned that informational signs will be installed near high use areas of Bear Creek in Bear Creek Park. These signs will alert park users to the risk posed by stream bacteria with body contact.
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Last updated 9/24/10