LMAS District Health Department is continuing to investigate a sewage discharge into South Manistique Lake.
The water samples taken on August 15, 2019 returned lower levels of e-coli than expected, this is in part due to the fecal matter being formed causing e-coli to be contained in the solid material and not dispersing widely. Also, as the time the matter was introduced into the lake is unknown, this may also have contributed to lower than expected e-coli levels.
Currently, the alert for no body contact with the water remains in effect for the Wolfe Bay Area. Additional notices will be posted at sites around the lake later today. LMAS District Health Department Environmental Health specialists are taking additional samples at numerous points in the lake and identifying if there is any presence of fecal material in other areas of the lake.
These e-coli results will be known sometime Saturday afternoon. The investigation continues with the assistance of the Michigan DNR and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (formerly DEQ).
Diseases acquired from contact with contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin, ear, respiratory, eye, and wound infections. Anyone exhibiting symptoms should contact their local health care provider. Anyone with information about any sewage discharge in South Manistique Lake or with concerns related to this alert should contact LMAS District Health Department at: 906-341-6951; 906-293-5107; or 800-562-4832. Additional information will be shared on Facebook.com/LMASDHD and through local radio.
