During routine water sampling, samples indicated the presence of coliform bacteria in the drinking water at the Town of Crescent water spring on South River Road.

Ice, food, and beverages prepared with this water must be discarded. If water must be used from this public water spring, the water should be heated to a rolling boil for at least one minute before use. Ice should be made from boiled or bottled water.

Total coliform bacteria are generally not harmful themselves, but indicate that other potentially-harmful bacteria may be present. Coliform bacteria were found in more samples than allowed and this is a warning of potential problems. As a precautionary measure, the health department recommends boiling the water or using bottled water until sampling indicates that no bacteria are present.

The Oneida County Health Department is working with the Town of Crescent to implement disinfection and to complete additional testing. The spring on South River Road has been posted with a notice.

For more information, call the Oneida County Health Department at (715) 369-6111, or visit oneidacountypublichealth.org.