“I like what you do [recycling],” said Alexander. “I just don’t like where you plan to do it. It’s virtually impossible to assure a zero discharge, signed affidavit or not - especially in this area where we have voluminous rainfall. I’m not sure it can be done. I’d like to know what kind of ‘teeth’ the ODEQ has to keep things in check. I don’t like where your putting your operation, and think it will ultimately have an adverse effect on the river.”

In addition to the presentation by AERT, Kara Williams and Judy Duncan, also of the ODEQ, discussed an educational program they’ve designed for visitors to the Illinois River this summer on bacteria and swimming safety.

According to Williams, the ODEQ has designed both posters and flyers warning recreational visitors to the area of potential hazards in swimming in the Illinois River.

“We have had problems across the state with bacteria,” said Williams. “The reason we’re starting this campaign with the Illinois River is its attraction for recreation.”

Williams said bacteria in fresh water areas is nothing new, and has been around for years; however, they felt it necessary to develop an outreach education program so visitors could make informed decisions about the best times to swim.

“The poster and flyer can be tailored for other areas in the state,” said Williams.

After reviewing the draft fact sheet, titled “Swimming in the Illinois River,” he asked Williams why it couldn’t be titled, “Swimming in Scenic Rivers.”

Williams reiterated the amount of traffic was the reason for targeting the Illinois River.

According to the fact sheet, the information gleaned from monitoring the Illinois River by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board indicates that there are times when the water in the river exceeds EPA’s recommended standards for human contact.

“When swimming in rivers, lakes and streams, one can be almost certain that some bacteria, viruses, protozoa and other microorganisms are present in the water,” states the fact sheet. “A small portion of these microorganisms is associated with various human illnesses.”

Swimmers can take a number of steps to reduce exposure to waterborne microorganisms, including:

• Not swimming in water with a temperature greater than 80 degrees.

• Not swimming if you have cuts or scrapes.

• Not swimming after a heavy rain.

• Wearing earplugs and swim goggles.