Larry Hickmott, 55, retired G M worker, tends two lines while fishing along the Saginaw River.

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Rivers "Healthy" Bacteriologically, Saginaw Health Official Says

Walleye Anglers Still Urged to Be Cautious & Consult Michigan Fish Advisory

April 26, 2003
By: Dave Rogers

Although the Saginaw County Department of Public Health reports that waterways are relatively clean, walleye fishers are urged to consult the Michigan Fish Advisory if they are concerned about eating their catch.

The health department has begun its weekly monitoring program to measure the amount of bacteria in the six rivers that flow through Saginaw County, according to Kevin W. Datte, Environmental Health Services director. Each river is sampled at strategic locations to determine the levels of E. coli.

"As the walleye season approaches, I am pleased to report that the E. coli levels in the rivers that will be hosting a lot of boat and shore anglers are very low," said Datte.

"The samples collected over the past three weeks have found the rivers very healthy bacteriogically. With this clean bill of health, the waterways pose no threat to dermatological or gastroenteritis illnesses that are associated with sewage contaminated water," Datte asserted. Sample results are available at the health department web site at www.saginawpublichealth.org.

The good news came with a warning from Datte: "Be cautious, anyway, and be sure to clean your hands with towelettes moistened with sanitizer or soap before you eat a lunch from shore or your boat."

If there are concerns about eating fish catches, Datte urged anglers to consult the Michigan Fish Advisory at licensed dealers or at www.michigan.gov/mdch.

For more information, contact Datte or John D. Niederhauser,M.P.H., health officer, at 989/758-3829.