It is still Summer, and many people will seek relief from the heat throughout the coming weeks on area rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. It’s a good idea to check out the Coosa River Basin Initiative’s 2025 Swim Guide before hitting the water!
The CRBI is collecting water samples from 30 popular spots through Labor Day weekend, and samples are tested for harmful E. coli. The Swim Guide is updated on Friday afternoons, just in time for locals that are making plans for the weekend.
Green sites indicate “low” levels of E. coli and are suitable for recreation. Red sites have a “high” level of E. coli and visitors should use extra caution or avoid that site.
Courtnee Davenport, Outreach Programs Manager, says that area waterways have been pretty safe this year.
Even when E. coli levels are too high for swimming, it still should be safe for boating since boating does not necessarily involve bodily contact with the water, adds Davenport.
The Coosa River Basin Initiative’s 2025 Swim Guide is available online at www.coosa.org.