Swimming advisory issued for the Saluda River
July 17, 2017
A section of the Saluda River at Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia has been placed under a swimming advisory, the Department of Health and Environmental Control reported today.
The affected area includes the section of the river that runs the length of Saluda Shoals Park. Higher than normal bacteria levels have been detected in this section of the river, and swimming is not advised until bacteria levels return to normal.
Recreational activities that involve submersion in the river where there is a possibility of swallowing water should be avoided. People with open cuts or wounds should also avoid contact with the water.
Recent water quality sampling in the Lower Saluda River, in the proximity of Saluda Shoals Park, revealed bacteria levels higher than normal. The Carolina Water Service Friarsgate Plant (CWS) did experience plant upset conditions July 12-14, however steps were taken to cease discharge into the river on Friday and plant conditions improved and were back in normal operation mode by July 15. Rainfall and stormwater runoff likely contributed to the elevated bacteria level in the sample collected Saturday evening at 8:30 p.m.
Temporary advisory signs will be placed in the area found to have high levels of bacteria in the water. DHEC is monitoring the situation. A news release will be issued and the signs removed once the area is safe for swimming.
