Officials in Lake Tahoe are urging visitors and residents to stay away from the water near Camp Richardson after a sewage leak resulted in elevated levels of E. coli bacteria in the lake.
Water samples taken near the resort on the lake’s South Shore came back with high levels of Escherichia coli, or E. coli, a bacteria that can cause stomach illness if swallowed. The leak was traced to a broken sewer line at the resort, which has already been located and is now being repaired. According to a U.S. Forest Service news release issued on Aug. 1, the contamination was detected in recent tests; however, officials did not specify exactly when the samples were collected or when the leak occurred.
So far, no illnesses have been reported — but out of caution, signs are now posted warning swimmers, boaters and paddlers to stay out of the water between Jameson Beach and the Valhalla Boathouse.
While nearby test sites, including those right near Jameson Beach and the boathouse, didn’t show dangerous bacteria levels, the area is still under a precautionary water quality advisory. Popular nearby spots like Pope Beach and Baldwin Beach are not affected.
The U.S. Forest Service, along with county and state water agencies, are now testing water daily to monitor bacteria levels. Once it’s safe, the warning signs will come down.
Officials say this is a good example of how Lake Tahoe’s summer monitoring program is meant to work — catching a potential health hazard before anyone gets sick.
E. coli is found naturally in the environment, but certain strains can cause serious illness. Experts recommend avoiding swallowing lake water and washing your hands after contact with recreational water.
For more on how to protect yourself from E. coli, you can visit the CDC’s website.