Download Bacteria levels higher than normal in Park Road Park Pond

For Immediate Release
April 4, 2012
Bacteria levels higher than normal in Park Road Park Pond
Charlotte, NC – Lab results show higher than normal amounts of unhealthy bacteria in the pond at Park
Road Park. Levels of fecal coliform bacteria are as much as three times higher than the normal range.
The elevated bacteria levels are likely the result of a recent sewage spill near the park.
Because of the bacteria, warnings remain in effect. Fishing in the pond is discouraged and contact with
the water is considered to be unsafe for people and pets. “This is a precaution,” said John McCulloch
with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services. “The measured levels exceed the state water quality
standard, so we issued the warnings to protect the public health.”
McCulloch says dissolved oxygen levels in the water are returning to the normal range. Local officials
have aerated the pond water since yesterday to increase the amount of oxygen needed by fish and
other aquatic life.
Storm Water Services’ Water Quality program began monitoring contamination levels in the pond on
Monday after being notified of a suspected sewage spill. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utility Department also
responded immediately to the spill report, located the problem a sewage pipe in a residential area on
Glenkirk Road, and fixed the problem.
Officials say the sewage spill was caused by an accumulation of cooking grease poured down kitchen
sinks. The untreated sewage entered a small creek that flows into the pond in Park Road Park. CharlotteMecklenburg officials remind all residents to pour cooking grease into a jar or can, refrigerate it until it
hardens, then throw the container in the trash.
Signs have been posted in Park Road Park urging people to stay away from the pond. Storm Water
Services will continue to monitor water quality in the pond and will notify the public when all levels
return to a normal range.
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Media Contact: John McCulloch, Storm Water Services
[email protected]
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Cell: 980-721-3760
Desk: 704-336-5455