Tests fail to find source of bacteria in creek

LEWISTON – Tests by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality have failed to determine the source of bacteria polluting Lindsay Creek in this North Idaho city, officials said.

Leaking septic systems in the 22-square-mile area on the northeastern edge of the city are suspected, but DNA tests were not conclusive, said Kyle Steele, who is with the department.

He said samples taken in October did not contain biomarkers indicating human waste. Steele said that tended to rule out septic tanks, though he added more tests will be done on samples taken next spring and summer.

The creek exceeded state standards for E. coli bacteria, nutrients and sediments. Besides septic systems, other possible sources of the bacteria include livestock and pets along the creek, and lawn and agricultural fertilizer.

Earlier tests looked for traces of laundry detergent, but those tests were also inconclusive.

John Cardwell, also with the department, said bacteria might not be making it to where the samples were taken.