The volume and concentration of E. coli in the Willamette River is reduced.

E. Coli levels in the Willamette as measured at the Hawthorne Bridge (MPN/100 ml) have been falling. In FY 2002-03, the average was 80.8 and in FY 2007-08, it was 24.6. The spike in 05-06 results from one very high November sample. The EPA recommended criteria for E.coli in a single sample is 235 MPN/100 ml. (derived from Oregon Dept. of Environmental Quality LASAR database)

The Water Quality Index of the Willamette River at Hawthorne Bridge improved from “fair” to “good” from 2001 to 2006, and currently maintains that rating. (Oregon Water Quality Index Summary Report, Water Years 1997-2006, Oregon Dept. of Environmental Quality)

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