Barren Fork River tested for bacteria

Sampling crews from Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation are in the process of testing a section of the Barren Fork River. The tests are follow-ups to tests done May 12.
According to TDEC representative Meg Lockhart, the initial tests were done after a complaint was received regarding ‘sick dogs and dead fish’ from a local resident. The first sample was taken along Peach Avenue, the area of the complaint.
The test done at that time showed:
‘ Environment Microbiology ‘ coliform, fecal; E. Coli; and nitrogen, ammonia.
‘ Metals ‘ aluminum, iron, lead and zinc.
Of what was found, the results for E. Coli were somewhat higher than the department would like to see. E. Coli was at a concentration of 1046 per 100 ml of sample. The department would like it to be 630 or less.
Because the concentration was higher than expected, the Department of Agriculture was made aware of the potential influence livestock may be having on that portion of the river.
The site where this sample was taken is approximately one to two river miles downstream from the nearest drinking water intake, and it is not an issue in regard to a public water supply treatment system.
‘None of the measurements in the report are unusual and we are confident in the treatment of public water supplies so that it’s safe from a bacterial standpoint,’ said Lockhart. According to her records, the water chemistry is not significantly different from surrounding streams.
As for the complaint of dead fish, the department found ‘no dead aquatic organisms and no other effects resulting from water quality’ when they tested the water May 12. Observed were fish and crayfish. All aquatic life appeared healthy.
Wishing to remain unidentified, a woman fishing at Riverfront Park on Tuesday agrees. After spending a ‘stress relief’ morning participating in her favorite activity, she caught 12 to 15 fish of various sizes and none looked diseased. Because she catches fish for pleasure, they were thrown back.
When informed about the May tests, the only problem she has witnessed is a lack of care people use when visiting the river. While fishing, she pulls trash from the water.
When it comes to drinking water for humans or animals, tap water is suggested over any untreated water. And when it comes to drinking water, Warren County Utility District was judged to have the best tasting water in Tennessee on Sunday.
‘Obviously, we never suggest any ambient surface water ‘ no matter what the lab results are ‘ be used for drinking water without treatment,’ said Lockhart. ‘Consumption of untreated water, either drinking or swallowed during swimming, could cause problems.’
As for the Barren Fork River, no water advisory or fish consumption advisory has been given. To alleviate any local concern, the department will be sending the Southern Standard the latest test results when they are available.