Ten-mile river bacteria levels rise

By SANDY LONG

TUSTEN, NY — For the second time, fecal coliform levels have tested high near the Stone Arch Bridge on Ten Mile River, a tributary of the Delaware River. The National Park Service conducted initial post-flooding testing on July 18, which showed levels of 521 colonies per 100 ml. A new sample taken on August 1 showed levels have risen to 790 colonies per 100 ml.

The New York State Department of Health closes public beaches when fecal coliform levels top 200 colonies.

The source of the contamination has not yet been determined, although an investigation has begun.

Tests conducted on August 1 and 2 at seven main-stem sites on the Delaware River, from Lordville to Millrift, PA were well within normal summertime levels, according to Don Hamilton, Natural Resource Specialist for the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River.