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Three eastern North Carolina river sites fail weekly bacterial testing

PRE News & Ideas | By Annette Weston

Published June 17, 2024 at 9:44 AM EDT

In sampling of the southwest prong of Slocum Creek, Sound Rivers' water quality specialist found that failing septic systems are very likely the source of elevated levels of bacteria. — File: In sampling of the southwest prong of Slocum Creek in February, Sound Rivers' water quality specialist found that failing septic systems are very likely the source of elevated levels of bacteria.

Three eastern North Carolina river sites failed weekly bacteria testing.

In the Neuse River watershed, Slocum Creek, southeast of New Bern, failed the test for a fourth week in a row. Officials with Sound Rivers said a lengthy investigation revealed the likely source is failing septic systems.

And two sites failed on the Pamlico River area, the Washington waterfront and Blounts Creek at Cotton Patch Landing near Washington.

Sites across North Carolina rivers are monitored for E. coli bacteria in freshwater and enterococci bacteria in salt water.

**Sound Rivers is a supporter of Public Radio East.

Annette Weston

Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.

See stories by Annette Weston