Colorado Waterways Show Elevated E. coli Levels, Report Finds
A report found that roughly 50% of Colorado waterways experienced E. coli bacteria levels considered potentially unsafe on at least one day during 2024 and 2025.
Denver, CO, August 31, 2026 — A recent report indicates that a significant portion of Colorado’s waterways may have posed potential health risks during the years 2024 and 2025. According to the findings, approximately 50% of the state’s waterways registered E. coli bacteria levels that were considered potentially unsafe.
The report’s analysis covered the period encompassing 2024 and 2025, examining water quality across various river and stream systems throughout Colorado. The key finding highlighted a substantial prevalence of E. coli bacteria, a common indicator of fecal contamination, reaching levels deemed potentially hazardous to public health on at least one occasion within this two-year timeframe.
E. coli bacteria can enter waterways through various sources, including agricultural runoff, wastewater treatment plant discharges, and wildlife or human waste. Exposure to high levels of E. coli can lead to severe gastrointestinal illnesses in humans, including cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Recreational activities such as swimming, wading, or fishing in contaminated waters can pose a direct risk.
The report did not specify the exact E. coli counts or the precise criteria used to define
Story summarized from the original created by Kim Posey on kdvr.com, see more information here.
