High level of E. coli detected at Fresno County lake

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – County authorities are warning the public to take precautions when going to Avocado Lake after elevated levels of E. coli were found.

The Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control identified elevated levels of the bacteria after a sample was collected on Wednesday. The sample surpassed the Statewide Bacteria Water Quality Objectives established by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

E. coli is a bacterium found in the intestines of warm-blooded animals and serves as an indicator of fecal pollution in water. Officials say elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of illness for swimmers who interact with the water.

The latest E. coli result from Lake Avocado is 2,419.60 MPN/ 100 mL. The water quality objectives for bacteria are less than 100.

While most E. coli strains are harmless, officials recommend being cautious when levels exceed safety thresholds – they recommend avoiding swimming in the lake until further notice.

They also recommend the following to those recreating in Central Valley water bodies.

• Do not drink river or lake water.
• Do not use river or lake water for cooking or washing dishes.
• Wash yourself and your family thoroughly with clean water after swimming and wash your hands before eating.
• If you have health concerns related to water exposure, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Weekly E. coli samples are collected in selected watersheds, and results are publicly available on an interactive Online Map updated every Friday. To see those results, click here.