LLPOA: Coliform Bacteria

Coliform bacteria are commonly found in animal and human feces and are usually present to some extent in lake water.  The presence of a specific type of coliform bacteria called E. coli is a pretty reliable indication of contamination from sewage.  

Testing for coliforms in Loon Lake water has been conducted since 1974.  Initially, sample collection was informal, sporadic, and from random locations.  More recently, the LLPOA Water Committee has standardized the times of collection and the sample sites, and has delivered the samples to a commercial testing laboratory for analysis.  Here is a summary of the findings in recent years, based on the averages of 8 samples from around the perimeter of the lake:

The results have been fairly consistent over the years, and all data points have been well below the Provincial Water Quality Objective of less than 100 cfu/100 ml for E. coli.  

Coliform levels can change rapidly, especially following a significant rainfall, which increases surface runoff.  It is never safe to consume the lake water without proper treatment.

Our thanks to the LLPOA volunteers who have collected the samples and delivered them to the testing laboratory for analysis:  Joe Harwood, Bill Gamble, Doug Austin, Rich Pilounis, and Doug Harper.