High bacteria levels persist in the Chattahoochee River, flowing from the R.M. Clayton wastewater treatment plant in Atlanta. This week, the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper reported alarming levels of harmful bacteria at the plant’s outfall. One sample revealed bacteria concentrations 35 times above the EPA’s safe recreation threshold.

The organization advises caution for a 60-mile river stretch from Atlanta to Franklin. Recommendations include washing hands after water contact, avoiding full submersion, and exercising particular caution for young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Notably, this issue does not affect water quality upstream of the plant, including within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. For real-time bacteria estimates in the park, visit bacterialert.org.

Additionally, dissolved oxygen levels downstream of the R.M. Clayton plant have dropped below the Clean Water Act standards.

On July 5 and July 18, measurements near Fairburn fell below 4.0 mg/L. Such low levels can stress aquatic life, potentially leading to a significant fish kill if conditions worsen.

The Chattahoochee Riverkeeper continues to monitor the situation and urges the city to address the issues at the R.M. Clayton plant. For ongoing updates, visit Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s website.