Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Spring is close at hand and many are thinking about favorite outdoor activities. Genesee County residents enjoy water sports of every kind. Many of us swim, boat, or fish in one of the many waterways in Genesee County. Yet, bacteria from sewage, animal waste, and storm water runoff can contaminate our lakes and rivers.

Many lakes, reservoirs and parts of the river system throughout Genesee County are analyzed by Health Department laboratory staff seasonally and in response to emergencies for the presence of E. coli, an indicator of potential bacterial contamination. E. coli itself is found in the intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals and can cause serious illness or death when ingested in large numbers.

For the results of water quality testing in Genesee County or to learn more about protecting area waterways from contamination, visit the Health Department website at www.gchd.us or call (810) 257-3603.