May 30, 2023: Waterborne pathogen (E. coli) monitoring update GOOD NEWS: E. coli counts were measured below Utah Department of Health recreational thresholds. Sampling suggests that the water is safe from harmful bacteria and viruses. Sites Sampled: Mexican Hat/US 163 crossing, Sand Island
Read MoreRecreational water quality monitoring has ended for the season on November 4, 2022 We will resume monitoring for harmful algal blooms and waterborne pathogens in summer 2023. HABs may be present in Utah water bodies year-round. If you are recreating, avoid areas of scum, know how to recognize the signs of a harmful algal bloom, …
Read MoreUpdate October 20, 2021 (Waterborne Pathogens) On October 19th, the San Juan Health Department visited the San Juan River for routine waterborne pathogen monitoring. Samples from Sand Island and the Mexican Hat US-63 Crossing did not contain E. coli above recreational thresholds. Routine sampling will continue monthly. Update September 28, 2021 (Waterborne Pathogens) On September …
Read MoreUpdate July 25, 2019 The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) detected elevated levels of E. coli at Mexican Hat on May 23, 2019, during routine sampling. E. coli values reached 1203 Most Probable Number (MPN) per 100 mL, approximately three times higher than the health advisory threshold of >409 MPN per 100 mL. Subsequent sampling …
Read MoreUpdate July 25, 2019 Additional sampling conducted on July 15, 2019, and July 17, 2019, showed E. coli levels well below the advisory threshold. Final sampling on July 25, 2019, confirmed continuing low E. coli levels. The health advisory was lifted on July 25, 2019. A health advisory for E. coli can be lifted after …
Read More
By Christine Osborne This week, we take a look back at DEQ’s response to the Gold King Mine release two years ago. On August 5, 2015, EPA contractors were clearing debris from the opening of the Gold King Mine near Silverton, Colorado, when the blockage gave way, releasing three million gallons of acid mine drainage into …
Read MoreBy Donna Kemp Spangler People all across the nation were stunned and outraged when on Aug. 5, a breach at the Gold King Mine turned the Animas River near Durango, Colo., a bright mustard-orange color. Even more shocking was the fact that federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) contractors caused the disaster. It took a 3-million-gallon …
Read More
Air Quality
Drinking Water
Environmental Response and Remediation
Waste Management and Radiation Control
Water Quality
Executive Director’s Office