Overview
- The Potomac Riverkeeper Network measured E. coli at 4,884,000 MPN at the outfall near Cabin John’s Lock 10, roughly 11,900 times the 410 MPN threshold for safe contact.
- Additional sampling found levels about 60 times the limit at Fletcher’s Cove in D.C., indicating contamination downstream.
- DC Water says a pump-and-bypass system is diverting roughly 40 million gallons per day to the Blue Plains treatment plant and that most overflow is now contained.
- Officials state the drinking water supply is not affected, while warnings urge people to avoid contact and wash thoroughly if exposed.
- Environmental advocates warn of potentially significant long-term impacts and criticize the upkeep of aging wastewater infrastructure.