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City of Elk River Policy Regarding Water Quality Testing at Orono Beach

During the swimming season, the City of Elk River monitors Lake Orono for potential health risks. It does this by testing for fecal coliform. Fecal coliform is only an indicator of health risk. The higher the fecal count the higher the potential the water also contains pathogens that can cause illness in people, if ingested. Fecal in the water may be of animal origin, which does not necessarily relate to a human health risk. It is also important to note that there is the potential to get sick if lake water is swallowed, even with a low fecal count.

Typically, illness caused by water borne pathogens includes symptoms such as fever and diarrhea. The most susceptible are the very old and the very young, due to dehydration. If you suspect such an illness contact your physician and report it to the City of Elk River (763) 635-1000.

Please note that the beach will no longer be closed and caution signs will be posted instead.

Testing Frequency

Three samples shall be taken at Orono Beach each Monday and Wednesday as well as the day before, week of, and week after the Sherburne County Fair and analyzed for fecal coliform. The results of the samples shall be averaged.

Standard for Posting Warning

If the average fecal coliform count of the three samples taken at Orono Beach on any single day exceeds 200, signage shall be posted at the beach stating "Caution - Impaired Water Quality - Potential Health Risk if Swallowed." A notice is placed on on the LOIA website and city will post notice on its website. Sampling will be conducted every day following the exceedance until the average of the three samples taken at the beach fall below 200 for two consecutive days, at which time the caution signs shall be removed.

Additional Protocol

Whenever fecal coliform counts raise above 200, a daily sample shall be taken at the Highway 10 Bridge and where the Elk River enters Lake Orono to ascertain what future water quality may be and if the high fecal count originated at the beach. These tests shall cease when the average fecal coliform levels fall below 200 at the beach for two consecutive days.

Notice When Beach is Posted

Street department places signs at Orono Beach and public access.
The Elk River Police Department will be contacted.
The Lake Orono Improvement Association is notified and they conduct a calling tree to lake owners. A notice is placed on on the LOIA website and city will post notice on its website.
The Sherburne County Public Health Department is contacted.
City Council Members and City Administrator are notified.

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