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During the summer of 2001, high levels of Enterococcus bacteria were detected on the South Yuba River. The California Department of State Parks, conducting a recreation survey on the South Yuba, performed the Enterococcus tests and found elevated bacteria levels between Edwards and Purdon Crossings in late June. SYRCL's volunteer river monitors were soon hot on the trail, taking more samples and hoping to discover the source of the pollution.
Surveys continued as the summer went on, but the mystery remained unsolved and levels rose at other sites on the river. By early August, the Nevada County Health Department had posted bright orange warning signs at the South Yuba's well-loved beaches advising swimmers to stay out of the water. Enterococcus, a bacteria found in feces, is responsible for a number of maladies in humans including ear infections and urinary tract infections.
The community came together to search for a solution to the problem threatening the river. SYRCL's volunteers put in hundreds of hours, and members contributed over $4,000 for testing. The unusual situation caused a stir throughout the state. Although the health advisory was lifted on September 28th, the cause of the bacteria remained unknown. Still seeking answers, SYRCL compiled the data into a report over the winter. The report describes actions to be taken if a similar situation arises again. Janet Cohen, SYRCL's executive director, explains, "We really hope that the bacteria simply do not appear this year, but we want to be ready if they do."
Find out more:
SYRCL Report: South Yuba River Enterococci Studies
Fall 2001 Sierra Citizen—"Combating Bacteria in the Yuba."
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