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EPA results highlight low E. coli levels

By Riverine Herald

Nov 15, 2022

Tests: The EPA’s indicative results from the second round of regional floodwater tests show low E. coli levels at all testing locations including the Campaspe River at Echuca. Photo by Steve Huntley

Environment Protection Authority Victoria has published more results from its regional floodwater testing program in conjunction with VICSES and Natural Hazards Research Australia.

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Indicative results from the second round of regional floodwater tests show low E. coli levels at all the testing locations — Little Murray River at Swan Hill, Murray River at Swan Hill, Campaspe River upstream of Rochester, Campaspe River at Rochester, Murray, Goulburn and Campaspe rivers at Echuca.

“These results build on the testing we have already done in other regional locations as well as the Maribyrnong River in Melbourne,” EPA chief environmental scientist Professor Mark Taylor said.

“Those results also showed generally low levels of E. coli with only the Goulburn River at Shepparton (2000MPN/100ml) showing above the recreational water quality guideline limit of 550 Most Probable Number per 100ml (MPN/100ml) when we tested there on November 2.

“Our advice remains to avoid contact with floodwater wherever possible. E. coli indicates that faecal contamination is present. Just because E. coli levels are low does not mean that there is no risk to health. We’re being cautious because the situation is highly variable.

"Floodwater should be treated as contaminated water as it can be contaminated from naturally occurring sources as well as overflowing sewerage or septic tanks, or agricultural or industrial wastes and chemicals.

“With an increased amount of floodwater in our catchments, this testing will provide a greater understanding of water quality across the state."