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TRANSCRIPT
In January 2013, residents near McLane Cove received a letter from Mason County Public Health
explaining the planned water quality work and requesting permission to access McLane Cove from their
property. Staff from Public Health and the Squaxin Island
Tribe collected water samples along the shoreline several
times in 2013 to assess water quality in the area. This report
provides an update on the sampling program, water quality
results, methods for improvement, and opportunities for
assistance.
McLane Cove Water Quality Update, July 2014
Water Quality Sample Sites
McLane Cove was sampled from January-September 2013 and the water samples were tested for the
presence of fecal coliform bacteria. Pollution standards are set using fecal coliform bacteria numbers
because it is found in the feces of warm-blooded animals. High levels of these bacteria have been
correlated with the lower level presence of viruses or other pathogens that can make people sick.
The water quality standard is established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the sanitary
control of shellfish produced and sold for human consumption. Fecal coliform organism levels must not
exceed a geometric mean value of 14 colonies/100 mL at a sample site. Additionally, not more than 10%
of all samples obtained for calculating the geometric mean value should exceed 43 colonies/100 mL.
The results for all sampling conducted in 2013 are listed in the table below. There are two sites that raise
concerns due to higher presence of fecal coliform bacteria, CI-002 and CI-010. CI-002 may be attributed
to wildlife and CI-010 may have potential farm influence but it is still under investigation.
The largest concerns for improving and maintaining water quality in the McLane Cove drainage are
onsite septic systems, pet waste, and farms. More information is provided on the following page about
their impacts on water quality and methods to reduce the risk.
For questions about the water quality sampling and results contact Stephanie Kenny with Mason County
Public Health at 360-427-9670 ext 581or [email protected].
Water Quality Sampling Program and Results
Fecal Coliforms per 100 mL water for McLane Cove Sites
Ways You Can Help
Farm Management
Farms have the potential to contribute to water
quality issues. Livestock waste contains fecal
coliform and other bacteria that can get carried
into nearby water by stormwater runoff. Small
farms can take measures to reduce their impact on
water quality.
For information, technical assistance, and
financial assistance in developing healthy farming
practices contact the Mason Conservation District
at 360-427-9436.
Pet Waste
Pet waste contains disease-causing organisms that
can be transmitted to people, pets, and wildlife.
Fecal coliform, bacteria, salmonella, roundworms,
and giardia can remain in
your yard for weeks or
months if not cleaned up.
They can get tracked into
your house or mix with
stormwater runoff and
get carried into nearby
surface water.
Landfills are designed to
safely handle pet waste
but yards and septic
systems are not. To keep
harmful bacteria out of the water and out of your
house scoop the poop, bag it, and put it in the
trash.
Onsite Septic Systems
Improperly operating septic systems can lead to
increased levels of fecal coliform bacteria and
nitrogen in the water. There are a variety of
resources available to assist homeowners in learning
about maintaining and repairing septic systems.
Visit http://www.co.mason.wa.us/health/
environmental/onsite/ for more information.
Mason County Public Health is currently
offering a rebate program for work completed
by August 31st. There is a $200 rebate for
maintenance provided by a Mason County
certified pumper or operation and maintenance
provider. A second $200 rebate is available for
retrofitting risers and/or effluent filters. Each
residence may receive up to $400 in rebates.
Contact Cindy Waite at 260-427-9670 ext 353 or
[email protected] for more information.
WSU Extension and Mason County Public
Health offer free homeowner septic system
workshops. Visit mason.wsu.edu/water-
resources/septic-system-education or call Erica
Bates at 260-427-9670 ext 682.
Craft3, Mason County’s non-profit lending
partner offers affordable loans that cover 100%
of the costs of designing, permitting, installing,
and maintaining septic systems. For more
information visit www.craft3.org or call 360-642
-4265.
This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement PC-00J32601 to Washington
Department of Health. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Environmental Protection Agency, nor does mention
of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.