5.3. SR 02-10-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Specific sample collection locations in these waterways included locations upstream and downstream of Big Elk Lake, an identified feedlot, and the Becker WWTP. The entrance of the Elk River to Lake Orono was also tested. Findings of the testing indicate fecal coliform levels at or above the MDH recreational use guideline at all upstream sample locations. At numerous locations fecal coliform concentrations exceeded 2,000 CFU/100 mi. The highest levels of fecal coliform were identified downgradient of an identified feedlot where levels up to 5,200 CFU/100 ml were reported. Sampling notes on Table 2 indicate fast currents, water out of river banks, inundated flood plains, livestock in the water, and flooded RV's. The data indicates that for the majority of locations fecal coliform samples were collected on more than one date and occasion. A review of this data indicates highly variable concentrations for the individual sample locations. It is likely that. changes in surface water flow rates had an affect on this data. 3.4 LAKE ORONO DATA Fecal coliform testing results for samples collected from the north shore of Lake Orono near random septic systems are provided on Figure 3, Appendix A and Table 3, Appendix B. The information provided indicates that the sampling was conducted directly off of approximately one-dozen septic systems. Notes provided on the table indicate that sample location #102 is located near a storm sewer out-fall, sample location #103 is located near a creek outfall, and sample location #107 is located near the mouth of ditch 28. Samples were also collected at the beach and Elk River discharge into Lake Orono. The data indicates elevated fecal coliform concentrations at each sampling location. Generally speaking, similar to higher concentrations of fecal coliform were observed at the upstream locations within the lake as compared to the fecal concentration reported for the Beach. The highest fecal coliform level was 2,720 CFU/100 ml at sample location #102 near the storm sewer out-fall. However, follow-up sampling implemented at this location on August 6th and 7th indicated fecal coliform concentrations of 0 CFU/100 ml and 20 CFU/100 ml, respectively. Similar decreasing trends are evident at locations #103 (near creek outfall) and #107 (near mouth of ditch 28) where follow-up sampling was implemented. 3.5 SPLIT SAMPLE COMPARISON DATA The City of Elk River requested Liesch to coordinate analysis of select split or duplicate samples collected by the City, Sherburne County SWCD and Lake Orono Improvement Association with an independent laboratory, to compare to findings of their test results. A summary of data for LIESCH ASSOCIATES, INC. · Jan-2003 · Hydrogeologists · Engineers · Environmental Scientists · Page 4 ·