Raised E. coli levels found in Chippewa River

(Photo by Erica Kearns/Staff Photographer)

Those hoping to tub the Chippewa River one last time before classes begin should proceed with caution.

Weekly water testing by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe indicated a raised level of E. coli in the Chippewa River between Meridian Park and Chipp-A-Waters Park, water quality specialist Carey Pauquette said in a news release.

Chipp-A-Waters park remains open, but a sign has been posted in the area deemed not safe for swimming and will remain in place until safe bacteria samples are obtained from the area.

Safe samples must fall below 300 E. coli per 100 milliliters for the water to be considered safe for swimming. This week findings indicated a geometric mean of 344.5.

Chris Bundy, director of parks of public spaces, could not be reached for comment.

For more information, contact Central Michigan District Health Department 989-773-5921.