Bacteria sampling of Bear Creek in Denver is conducted near the western parking lot of Bear Creek Park. Weekly sampling of this location was initiated in August 2007 and will continue through September. Bi-weekly to monthly sampling will be conducted through the rest of the year. The state's water quality guidance for bacteria is based on E. coli concentrations, which are measured in "colony forming units" (cfu) per 100 milliliters (ml). Values exceeding 235 cfu/100ml are considered the advisory levels beyond which there is an increased likelihood of bacterial related illness with body contact.
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Most Recent Monitoring Results
The sampling locations are located in Bear Creek at Bear Creek Park. The most recent sample results from this site include the following:
Elevated bacteria levels may occur at any time and can cause illness.
When E. coli levels exceed the state guidance level of 235 cfu/100ml, there is an elevated risk of sickness as a result of water intake. Typical symptoms include nausea and gastrointestinal issues.
It is planned that informational signs will be installed near high use areas of Bear Creek in Bear Creek Park. These signs will alert park users to the risk posed by stream bacteria with body contact. Current plans are for signs to be in place by the spring of 2008.
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Last updated 8/10/09