The Christian County Health Department is warning residents of elevated E. Coli levels in the Finley and James rivers after heavy rainfall in June. According to Environmental Public Health Supervisor Jaxson Priest, the rivers may be safe for swimming again next week.
Safe Alternatives for Swimming
In the meantime, Priest recommends swimming in Bull Creek, Swan Creek, or Busiek State Forest, which are likely to have safer water levels. Local lakes, including Stockton and Table Rock lakes, are also open for swimming.
The Christian County Health Department plans to post an update on the Finley and James rivers’ bacteria levels on July 2. Residents can visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Missouri Department of Natural Resources websites for information on lake closures in the region.
Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.