Several Western Pa. swimming spots fail water-quality tests
Several area swimming spots failed water-quality tests because of strands of E. coli, according to a Melcroft environmental organization.
The Mountain Watershed Association, which tests popular swimming spots in the region, found 11 out of 14 tested locations failed the test. Swimming, wading and paddling should be avoided to reduce the risk of developing any illnesses.
The organization, which tests water weekly between May 1 and Sept. 30, looks for the bacteria that can cause foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
According to the organization, the Youghiogheny River in McKeesport and in Elizabeth Township failed to meet water-quality standards.
Smithton Beach in South Huntingdon, Butterfly Rock in Layton, Turtle Rock in Connellsville and Ohiopyle did not pass water quality standards, along with Indian Creek in Montgomery County and areas in Confluence, the Pinkerton swim hole on the Casselman River and the Whipkey Dam on Laurel Hill Creek in Somerset County.
Tests on Blue Hole on Morgan Run in Dunbar, Cucumber Run Falls in Ohiopyle and Blue Hole on Blue Hole Creek in Rockwood showed good water quality standards.
Results are posted every Thursday at mtwatershed.com. Notifications on water quality can be received through email or text message alerts.
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