Study Shows That LA River Has High Levels Of Fecal Bacteria

Though they have become very popular, two of the Los Angeles River’s designated recreation sites remain in “very poor” condition due to very high levels of fecal bacteria.

As the popularity of recreational spots have continued to surge, no one had elected to “formally study the water quality,” according to laist.com. Until now.

"What was novel about this study," Dr. Rita Kampalath, Heal the Bay's science and policy director told laist.com, "was the location in the recreation zones."

Heal the Bay scientists studied three sites within the river's two designated recreation zones during the summer of last year, performing weekly tests for fecal indicator bacteria.

The scientists tested for several specific bacteria, including E. coli and Enterococcus. Though the bacteria levels varied, they remained high and exceeded federal standards.

Kampalath told laist.com that her team “wasn't surprised with the results, given what they already knew about LA River water quality from previous tests.”

"There are smart ways for people to protect themselves if they choose to get in the water, or really even recreate on the water," Kampalath said. "We would definitely advise against swimming, especially if you are going to dunk your head."

With the release of the study, Heal the Bay is hoping for better monitoring, better public notification, and more research, laist.com reported.

“Our strategy is really about recognizing that the cities have put together these pretty detailed plans about what needs to be done to fix these issues, and we as the public need to support our decision makers in making sure that those plans are implemented," Kampalath said.

Kampalath advised that if people do come into contact with the contaminated water, it’s best to “thoroughly rinse off” and attempt to not have “hand-to-mouth contact.”

To read similar stories visit Water Online’s Source Water Contamination Solutions Center.