Fish Creek and Flat Creek E. coli tests above recreation contact limit

A water quality report from the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WYDEQ) indicates samples collected over the summer at two E. coli monitoring locations on Fish Creek and one on Flat Creek exceeded the State’s primary contact recreation criteria.

WYDEQ defines primary contact recreation as any recreational use that could result in ingestion of the water orimmersion (full body contact).

At this time, you are advised to use caution when recreating in Fish Creek, especially full body submersion or accidental ingestion of the water.

Teton County Health Officer Dr. Riddell said, “Anytime you are recreating in natural bodies of water you should use caution and never assume that the water is free from E. coli and other pathogens.” Dr. Riddell went on to say, “Young children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals are more susceptible to illness should use caution if recreating in Fish Creek, Flat Creek and other waterways over Labor Day weekend.”

In the past, genetic testing has determined that the E. coli bacteria in the Fish Creek Basin has come primarily from wildlife.

The Teton Conservation District (TCD) is recommending additional testing to identify the sources of E. coli be completed prior to management discussions.