FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 7, 2008
Conditions in Saluda River at Columbia improve, signs removed
COLUMBIA – Test results (xls) of waters from the Saluda River in Columbia indicate water quality has returned to normal following the discharge of partially treated wastewater last week, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control reported today.
“Bacteria levels in the Saluda Rapids area met recreational water quality standards in tests conducted both Tuesday and Wednesday,” said David Wilson, chief of DHEC’s Bureau of Water. “Swimming advisory warning signs posted along the affected areas of the river have been removed.”
Wilson said the Saluda River, as all rivers of the state, can have higher bacteria levels after a rainfall.
“Sources of bacteria can be washed into surface waters after a rainfall, so anyone using any river for recreational purposes should be aware of these conditions.”
For more information about sources of non-point pollution and how you can help, visit DHEC’s Web site at http://www.scdhec.gov/environment/water/npspage.htm.
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For more information:
Thom Berry – (803) 898-3885
E-mail – berrytw@dhec.sc.gov
BNR1868