CRC volunteers worked with ShoreRivers to test bacteria levels at two sites in the Corsica, at the Town Wharf and at the Corsica River Sailing Center (CRYC).
The units for bacteria samples are colony-forming units (cfu), and ShoreRivers utilizes the standardized EPA criteria of 104 cfu/100ml for collecting and analyzing bacteria samples. Anything higher than 104 cfu is a failing sample, and anything below 104 cfu is a passing sample.
Below are the weekly bacteria levels at the two sites from the beginning of June until Labor Day:
June 3: Wharf – 388, CRYC – 41
June 10: Wharf – 231, CRYC – 120
June 17: Wharf – 121, CRYC – 20
June 24: Wharf – 496, CRYC – 135
July 1: Wharf – 41, CRYC – 10
July 8: Wharf – 288, CRYC – 158
July 15: Wharf – 20, CRYC – <10
July 22: Wharf – 63, CRYC – 20
July 29: Wharf – 31, CRYC – 52
August 5: Wharf – 364, CRYC – 20
August 12: Wharf – 1860, CRYC – <10
August 19: Wharf – 161, CRYC – 448
August 26: Wharf – 10, CRYC – 10
September 2: Wharf – 771, CRYC – 933
***Please note that there are inherent risks associated with open water swimming and recreational contact including, but not limited to, bacterial infections. Bacteria levels can change, particularly as a result of significant rain events. Always rinse off after swimming in the river, never swim with open wounds, avoid water contact for 24-48 hours after a significant rain event, and always obey signage and local laws whenever swimming in open water. Please note that not all test sites are designated swimming areas!***