MYNORTHWEST NEWS

Tests show unacceptable levels of bacteria, human waste in North Seattle creek

Jun 14, 2013, 7:59 AM | Updated: 9:31 am

Tests have shown extremely high counts of E.Coli bacteria in parts of Thornton Creek. (Image courtesy City of Seattle)

(Image courtesy City of Seattle)

Human waste is somehow getting into a North Seattle creek.

Test results released from a recent study have shown high counts of bacteria in parts of Thornton Creek. The report says samples indicate it is highly likely the bacteria is coming from humans.

“You’re dealing with something either coming in from the leaking sewer system, the drainage system or potential illegal RV dumping into the storm drains,” Stormwater scientist, and author of the study, Jonathan Frodge tells KING 5.

Inspectors are trying to determine the source of the bacteria. They say they’ll look for cracks or breaks in the sewer system.

Health officials are recommending the public to stay away from Thornton Creek warning of potential human health risk due to the potential of high levels of bacteria exposure at beaches.

Thornton Creek runs 15 miles, through over 700 backyards, 15 parks and natural areas to Lake Washington.

The Department of Public Utilities says of all the creeks tested in King County, Thornton Creek consistently ranks among the highest for fecal coliform bacteria counts.

MyNorthwest News

Photo: On Monday, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced there will be 16 new preschool classrooms across Se...

Julia Dallas

Harrell’s office announces Seattle preschool slots for thousands of kids

Thousands more families will have the chance to start their children's Seattle preschool education earlier, thanks to a program launching.

7 hours ago

Digital...

Micki Gamez

How parents can help prevent children from falling victim to online sex crimes

Chances are, if your teen has a cell phone or tablet, they either know someone or they have been the victim of an online sex crime because kids as young as seven are online more than ever. My interest in this story began almost the same time last year when my daughter came home and […]

11 hours ago

Pierce County Jail...

Bill Kaczaraba

Pierce County Corrections chief at odds with the employee guild

The Corrections Bureau's Guild has issued Patti Jackson a vote of 'no confidence,' as reported by The Tacoma News Tribune.

13 hours ago

Image: A Seattle Police Department vehicle seen during the day...

Sam Campbell

Security guard stabbed, suspect barricades inside Beacon Hill apartment

SWAT officers surrounded a complex in Seattle's Beacon Hill neighborhood after police said a man stabbed a guard barricaded himself inside.

14 hours ago

seattle indecent exposure...

Frank Sumrall

Seattle man arrested for 14 counts of indecent exposure, most near schools

A 34-year-old man was arrested by Seattle police (SPD) in connection to 14 counts of indecent exposure near Lake Forest Park.

14 hours ago

Federal Way shootings...

Bill Kaczaraba

Federal Way Police say two shootings are related

Police believe two shootings in Federal Way are related.

17 hours ago

Tests show unacceptable levels of bacteria, human waste in North Seattle creek