Repost from Seneca Nation Environmental
Beach water samples are routinely collected at the following Recreational Areas (“Beaches”) of the Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Oil Spring Territories of the Seneca Nation. The beach water samples are analyzed for bacteria that may pose a threat to human health. Samples are analyzed for E. coli, Enterococci, Fecal coliforms, and Nitrates. The presence of these bacteria and nitrates can serve as indicators of possible contamination which may pose a risk to human health.
Results from the samples collected this week on 6/20/24 indicate that the bacteria levels were above the recommended limits for recreational use at the FOLLOWING listed Beach locations:
CATTARAUGUS TERRITORY
Pinewoods Beach – elevated levels of Enterococci.
ALLEGANY TERRITORY
The community is being advised to avoid ingesting or submerging themselves in the waters on the Allegany Territory due to recent discharges from the Olean Wastewater Treatment Plant. This precaution is being recommended until bacteria levels return to acceptable levels. The Environmental Protection Department is actively monitoring the situation and collecting samples for analysis to ensure the safety of residents and their pets. It is important to adhere to these warnings to prevent any potential health risks associated with the contaminated water. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available.
Please contact the Seneca Nation, Environmental Protection Department at (716) 532-2546 or email at epd@sni.org if you have any questions or concerns.
Additionally, keep in mind that recreational activities such as swimming (submersion) should be avoided in all environmental waters (creeks, streams, beaches) for 72 hours following a storm event. Elevated bacteria levels can persist after a rainstorm depending on the intensity of the storm, volume of runoff and current water conditions.
