Lakers can help keep E. coli in check

Lake residents and users can take simple steps to help reduce bacteria levels entering the lake.
· Keep septic system tanks or aeration systems in proper working condition by having them serviced according to manufacturer’’s recommendations.
· Properly dispose of boat waste.
· Take regular bathroom breaks when swimming and use designated restrooms.
· Collect and properly dispose of pet waste.
According to the Missouri Department of Resource E. coli is a bacteria found in the intestinal tract of warm-blooded animals, including humans.  Some strains of E. coli can cause gastrointestinal illness. These bacteria can reach lake water from many different sources, both human and animal.
For some people, including children, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, even low levels of these bacteria may cause illness.
The state water quality standard for waters with whole body contact for recreation is a geometric mean of 126 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water during the entire recreational season of April 1 to Oct. 31.
The geometric mean is a statistical method used to analyze data collected over a period of time. This standard is based on the current risk level accepted by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of eight people in 1,000, or less than 1 percent, over the recreational season becoming ill as a result of swimming in the water.
The EPA’s suggested maximum level for test results of a single sample taken at a beach is 235 E. coli colonies per 100 milliliters of water.