Bear Creek at Blue Heron Park

Source Information

Water samples are collected by Rogue Valley Council of Governments Natural Resources Department as part of their monthly sampling for Total Maximum Daily Load monitoring of pollutants in the Rogue basin. The sample is analyzed and meets the OR Dept. of Environmental Quality data standards. The Rogue Valley Council of Governments shares their results with Rogue Riverkeeper who then posts the information on Swim Guide so that it is easily available to the public. Oregon state criteria for whether a water sample meets the water quality standard for contact is an E. coli result of 406 MPN/100mL per sample or less. Water samples are collected, then sealed and incubated over a 24-hour period at 35+/- degrees Celsius. The results are considered valid for 7 days. Results based on the Oregon water quality criteria of 406 MPN/100mL are organized as follows: GREEN = a single sample is below the Oregon water quality criteria for water contact YELLOW = a single sample is at Oregon water quality criteria, nearing unsafe water contact. Caution should be taken when recreating in sites marked yellow. RED = a single sample exceeds the Oregon water quality criteria.. People and pets should not be recreating in sites labeled red as bacteria levels are considered unsafe for human contact. GREY = a site with no current data available. SPECIAL STATUS = a toxic algae bloom was observed. Some species of blue-green algae can be toxic and may cause illness in people, pets and other animals if accidentally consumed. Always use your best judgement when recreating in or near waterways. Pay attention to odd smells, colors, water quality, etc and report anything that looks out of the ordinary. Be safe, have fun, and thank you for protecting the Rogue!