Test results by the Surfrider Foundation showing high levels of fecal coliform in the stream at Golden Gardens were inaccurate, according to a statement released by the organization.
The Surfrider Foundation released a statement this week acknowledging it made a mistake when it reported high levels of fecal coliform in the steam at Golden Gardens June 22.
According to the statement, the foundation's scientific method was sound, but the testing counted the levels of all coliforms, some of which are not harmful, instead of just fecal coliform.
On June 22, the Surfrider Foundation, an international nonprofit focused on the health of oceans and beaches, released test results that showed levels of fecal coliform in the Golden Gardens stream three to four times what is acceptable by state regulations.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, fecal coliform is not usually harmful itself, but it can indicate the presence of harmful pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Swimming and eating shellfish from an area with high levels of fecal coliform may pose a health risk.
In response to the Surfrider Foundation's test results, Seattle Parks and Recreation commissioned Seattle Public Utilities to conduct its own testing June 23. Results released June 25 showed low levels of fecal coliform in the stream.
According to the Surfrider Foundation's statement, while its reported fecal coliform levels were inaccurate, E. Coli levels were accurate.
"The take-away message to recreational users and residents near these urban streams is that they are not altogether safe to recreate in or to ingest," according to the statement. "All people and pets that come in contact with these streams should wash immediately afterward. Fecal coliforms and E. Coli are only some of many pathogens often found in urban streams that can be harmful to humans."
The levels of E. Coli found by the Surfrider Foundation in the Golden Gardens stream are considered safe by the 1986 Environmental Protection Agency freshwater standard.
The Surfrider Foundation will continue testing at Golden Gardens and other urban streams as well as working with Parks to create new and more child-friendly signage regarding the hazards of these streams.
