Post Falls water tests show improvement

The Post Falls Public Works Department has been testing its water daily since routine samples Monday showed the presence of coliform bacteria.

Two of the eight samples taken Monday had coliform levels above allowable limits, according to the city. The city takes routine water samples from its drinking water system monthly.

But seven samples taken Tuesday all turned up clean, according to the city.

“We have to take a second run of samples,” city spokeswoman Kit Hoffer said Wednesday. “Both have to come back free of coliform before we know the system is OK.”

The presence of coliform does not require a boil water order, but the city did advise residents with severely compromised immune systems, families with infants and medically fragile elderly residents to consult their health provider if they had concerns about drinking city water.

Public Works Superintendent Terry Werner indicated that the large amount of construction in the city may have caused contamination of the drinking water, or it could have been the result of human error. The last time the city had a sample that tested positive for coliform was 11/2 years ago.

Coliform bacteria naturally exist in the environment but are an indicator that other, potentially harmful, bacteria could be present. It’s often a sign of a problem with the water pipes.

The city will issue another notice when the water system is determined to be coliform-free or if other problems have surfaced, Hoffer said.

For more information, call the Post Falls Public Works Department at (208) 777-9857.