St. Louis Confluence Riverkeeper

Testing procedures 2010, St. Louis Confluence Riverkeeper(SLCR).

With the new calendar year (2010) SLCR decided to modify its testing methods by obtaining results as to E-coli vs. fecal-coli form. Feca-coli form is a more general measurement than that of E-coli.  E-coli is now a more recommended measurement, (currently being used by the State of Missouri) and as such SLCR has decided that even though there is an added cost it will provide a more meaningful reference point.   At this time the EPA data published in 1997, indicates that a reading in excess of 235 E. coli per 100 ml would likely cause on average 8 illnesses per 1000 swimmers. Illnesses are similar to those seen in a treated pool where operation and maintenance is less than required. Whole body contact increases the risk of illness.

The amount of full body immersion (FBI) varies over the areas where the tests were taken.  SLCR is not determining that FBI will occur, however when boating or waterskiing occurs one will surely be exposed to that potential. 

The charts and graphs below are an indicator of what the St. Louis Confluence Riverkeeper has identified (with the help of a certified testing lab) on the indicated dates.  This testing is expensive and any assistance in providing for these expenses will be beneficial. 

SLCR is, with the beginning of 2010, using PDC Laboratories, Inc, 3278 N. Highway 67, Florissant MO 63033 as its testing facility.  They are NELAC certified.  The test site locations are the same as those used at year end of 2009, see the location descriptions listed above for exact location details.

It is SLCRs goal to take all of the test site readings as close together as possible.  Since sites 1-4 are taken using surface transportion and sites 5-10 require use of the patrol boat, river and weather conditions have a great affect upon how closely the dates tie together.  Boating safety is a primary concern and depending upon the river conditions the spread between the two test dates may vary.  The chart below indicates the actual dates that a months tests were taken.  SLCR has also indicated as a reference on the chart the EPA limit of 235, as the safe limit for Full Body Immersion. SLCR is also indicating any major issues observed which might indicate differance in test results.

• April test. The 4/28 readings were taken at  high water, the 5/5 readings were taken when the Mississippi was at a more normal level.
• May test.  Scheduled for 5/20 for sites 1-4.  Water levels were still high.
• August test of sites 1-4 was made 8/10.  Water levels were falling.  On August 18 the river had fallen to a point were samples were made on sites 5 thru 10. 

   

           05/20/10           624                 960          408            537

           08/10/10           108                   41            10              41

           08/18/10                                                                                98              75          275            63            74              121