Popular Russian River Beach Reopens After Closure Due To High Bacteria Levels

SONOMA COUNTY, CA -- The Sonoma County Department of Health Services reopened Monte Rio Beach Wednesday after water tests Tuesday revealed diminished levels of E. coli and total coliform bacteria.

The Russian River beach had been closed since last Thursday after total coliform and E.coli levels in a water sample exceeded state guidelines and Department of Health Services protocol.

Department of Health Services staff were removing closure signs at the beach Wednesday afternoon, as the water is now safe for swimming, wading and boating, spokesman Scott Alonso said.

After heavy attendance between July 1 through July 4, water samples on Monday and Wednesday showed bacterial levels higher than state guidelines of 10,000 organisms per 100 ml for total coliform or 235 organisms per 100 ml for E. coli.

• RELATED COVERAGE: Popular Russian River Beach Closed Due To High Bacteria Levels

The Department of Health Services still advises against using the river water for cooking, drinking or washing dishes. Washing with clean water after playing in the river water also is advised for pets and people, the
Department of Health Services said.

The results of the recent tests on Monday and Tuesday at all beaches on the Russian River were set to be released on the Sonoma County website Wednesday afternoon, Alonso said.

By Bay City News Service

Photo via Monte Rio Parks/Facebook