News Flash Home
The original item was published from 4/8/2022 11:33:40 AM to 1/25/2023 9:05:07 AM.

News Flash

* City News Alerts *

Posted on: April 8, 2022

[ARCHIVED] UPDATE: Bacteria Levels in Pollocks Branch Have Returned to Normal

Green City Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2022


UPDATE: Bacteria Levels in Pollocks Branch Have Returned to Normal


CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - After water quality monitoring conducted by the Rivanna Conservation Alliance (RCA) in March detected elevated E. coli levels in Pollocks Branch, City crews investigated the surrounding area in an attempt to identify the source of the problem.  The investigation did not reveal a discreet source of the E. coli contamination.  RCA conducted two rounds of follow-up monitoring; the first round showed declining levels of E. coli, and the second round showed that levels had returned to normal.

Given the steady decrease in E. coli levels and the lack of evidence of a source of the E. coli, the elevated levels were likely related to rainfall and associated runoff.  RCA will continue to conduct monthly bacteria monitoring on Pollocks Branch.  For more information on RCA’s bacteria monitoring efforts visit https://www.rivannariver.org/bacteria/ .

Urban streams, by the very nature of the lands that drain into them, often have water quality challenges.  That in and of itself does not mean that it is dangerous to interact with these waterways.  It does mean that it is always advisable to follow some practical guidelines when interacting with urban streams:

  • Do not come into contact with streams during or soon after a rain event.  Levels of pollutants in the stream are higher at these times because they are carried into streams by rainwater via the stormwater drainage system.
  • Do not come into contact with streams if you have any open cuts or sores on your body.
  • Always wash hands or use hand sanitizer after being in contact with streams, and especially before eating.
  • Do not ingest any of stream water or sediment; avoid getting stream water in your eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. 
  • Wear shoes to protect your feet.

For additional information, please contact Water Resources Specialist Dan Frisbee at 434-970-3997 or frisbee@charlottesville.gov.


Media Contact
David Dillehunt
Interim Deputy Director of Communications
City of Charlottesville
434-970-3114
dillehunt@charlottesville.gov

Facebook Twitter Email

Other News in * City News Alerts *

City Seal on brown background

Vibrant Community Fund Application Link

Posted on: September 20, 2023
Rivanna Waste logo

DRINKING WATER UPDATE

Posted on: September 12, 2023
Charlottesville Parks and Recreation

Pen Park Fitness Trail Repairs

Posted on: September 5, 2023
Charlottesville Parks and Recreation

Tree Planting Planned for November

Posted on: September 1, 2023
Rivanna Waste logo

FREE LOCAL MULCH AT THE IVY MUC

Posted on: August 29, 2023
washington park pool

Sunday Sundown at Washington Park Pool

Posted on: August 11, 2023
My project (2)

Commissioners and Cans Food Drive

Posted on: August 3, 2023
Logo for Charlottesville Acting on Climate Together

2023 Climate Action Work Plan Posted

Posted on: July 26, 2023
City Hall

City Hall to Reopen July 19, 2023

Posted on: July 18, 2023
tax time

Taxes Due Monday, June 5, 2023

Posted on: May 30, 2023
Green City Logo

Charlottesville DMV Select Services

Posted on: January 4, 2023
City Seal on brown background

Community Resources for Financial Relief

Posted on: November 1, 2022