Lake Water Quality – Microorganisms

Recreational users of any lake, river or other body of fresh water should be aware that they are not swimming in a chlorinated pool, but rather in a natural environment complete with fish, aquatic insects, and naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoans. While most of these organisms are not harmful to humans, quantities of pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria might be present at certain times, particularly after heavy rainfalls.

Sources of these organisms can be wildlife, sewage treatment plants, livestock facilities, and failing septic systems. Although the source was never identified, an outbreak of leptospirosis (a bacterial infection) occurred among recreational users of Lake Springfield in 1998. This is the only identified outbreak of its kind in Lake Springfield, and it appeared to be related to a period of extensive rainfall. Since that 1998 occurrence, no one has come down with the illness after using the lake.

To read about other lake water quality issues, select one of the links below.