WINONA LAKE, Ind. -- Testing by the Lilly Center’s research lab confirmed dangerous levels of E. coli are still present in Cherry Creek.
The Town of Winona Lake responded immediately to this incident and has taken steps to identify the source of the pollution and fix the problem. The Lilly Center conducted additional water sampling to track E. coli levels in the water.
Samples were taken at all five locations on Sept. 10. Results of those tests showed improvement since the town repaired the clogged line and operations returned to normal.
On Sept. 15, the Lilly Center collected another set of samples upstream of the discharge, downstream of the discharge, and at the mouth of Cherry Creek where it enters Winona Lake. E. coli levels continue to decrease at the sample sites but are still above the IDEM standard.
E. coli concentrations at all sites are still above the EPA safety threshold. The creek is still not safe but there has been progress.
The Lilly Center will continue to investigate this situation and provide relevant updates.