Evans Creek at Palmerton Park is sampled weekly from June 5th to September 25th

Rogue Riverkeeper tries to monitor these sites several times per month, primarily during the recreation season of June through October. Volunteers collect most of the samples. Analysis is done in the Rogue Riverkeeper lab meeting OR Dept. of Environmental Quality data standards. Results are posted when available on the Swim Guide.

The criteria in the state of Oregon determining whether a single sample meets water quality standards for water contact is an E. coli result of 406 MPN/100mL for a single sample standard or an E. coli result of 126 MPN/100mL using the geometric mean of 5 samples in a 90 day period. The Swim Guide ratings are given using single sample criteria and the geometric mean. The result from a sample is considered valid for one week. That is, if a sample collected on the 7th met the water quality standard, that result can generally be used to consider the waterbody safe for water contact until the 14th. Swim Guide monitoring data uses both "A" level and "B" level samples. "A" level samples are used only by DEQ and are classified as an "A" level when the sample is incubated over a 24-hour period at 35 +/- 1 degree Celsius. "B" level samples are incubated over a 24-hour period at 35 +/- 2 degrees Celcius.

A site is marked GREEN: when a single sample is below or meets the Oregon water quality criteria for water contact.

A site is marked RED: when a single sample exceeds the Oregon water quality criteria for water contact.

A site is marked GREY: when there is no current data available.

A site can be designated "Special Status" if there is a toxic algae bloom observed by the monitor. Some species of blue-green algae can be toxic. These toxic algae can cause illness in people, pets and other animals that have contact with the algae. If a site is designated "Special Status" for a toxic algae bloom, it means that the water quality technician visibly observed a toxic algae bloom at the site at the time the sample was collected, but there could be other locations along the water body that have more or less toxic algae. If the site is not designated "Special Status" it does not mean there is absolutely no risk from toxic algae at the site. Be observant of the site where you are swimming and use your own judgment.

If you see pollution, please report it and note the exact location and other details. If you see a spill of chemicals, oil, or paint, call 911. Then, call the Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) Hotline: (800) 452-0311. OERS will be able to get a response on weekends or off hours. Then, please report the issue to Rogue Riverkeeper by clicking the “Report Pollution” button at the bottom of this page.