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Stream Bacteria Levels Rise To Unhealthy

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And now, another effect of the drought: higher bacteria levels in streams. 

It figures... less water means less dilution of naturally-occurring bacteria, and warmer water promotes the growth of bacteria. 

But several streams around the region are showing unsafe levels of bacteria. 

Those include a handful of Rogue Valley streams. 

We discuss the dangers of contact with the contaminated water.  

The list:

  • Bear Creek, from Phoenix to the Rogue River
  • Neil Creek in Ashland
  • Griffin Creek from Medford to the Rogue River
  • Jackson Creek from Central Point to the Rogue River
     

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Geoffrey Riley is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and has hosted the Jefferson Exchange on JPR since 2009. He's been a broadcaster in the Rogue Valley for more than 35 years, working in both television and radio.