E. L. Smith Water Treatment Plant Intake is sampled weekly from January 1st to December 31st

E. coli levels measured at the Edmonton’s drinking water intakes are included in Swim Guide as a reference point for recreational water users. River water is generally cleanest mid-stream (the location of the intakes), and users should note that water quality may be poorer in other parts of the river, such as along the shoreline depending on the nature of various discharges within the City of Edmonton.

EPCOR tests for a number of parameters including E. coli at Edmonton’s two Water Treatment Plant intakes in the North Saskatchewan River. Water enters the mid-stream intakes and is carried by pipe to the treatment plant. After passing through a coarse filter, or grate, that prevents larger debris from entering the intake, the water travels through a pipe and is then tested prior to any treatment and as close to the intake as possible.

EPCOR uses a standard Idexx method to process the samples and test for E. coli. Only one sample is taken on each test day, and as such, the result must be compared against Health Canada’s single-sample limit of 400 CFU/100ml (colony forming units of E. coli per 100 millilitres of water). When E. coli levels are less than or equal to 400 CFU/100ml, the site is posted green. When E. coli levels exceed 400 CFU/100ml, the site is posted red.

For inquiries regarding this protocol, please contact Hans Asfeldt of the North Saskatchewan Riverkeeper directly via the organization’s website: http://saskriverkeeper.ca/?page_id=287