21-05-2025
'Elevated' E. coli levels detected in Winton Lake after sewer line leak
Elevated E. coli levels have been detected in Winton Lake after a sewer line north of Winton Lake might have broken or been blocked, according to local sewer officials.
A sanitary sewer line, which transports sewage from homes, about a mile north of Winton Woods is believed to have leaked sewage into a creek that fed into Winton Lake, Metropolitan Sewer District spokeswoman Deb Leonard told The Enquirer.
The sewer district is flushing the sewer line between Waycross Road and Embassy Drive in Forest Park to determine the issues, Leonard said.
Water samples taken from Winton Lake on May 20 confirmed "elevated" E. coli levels in one of three areas tested, particularly at the northern portion of the lake near the campground. The sewer district is continuing to take samples.
After Hamilton County Public Heath reported the "concerning" sewage leak, Great Parks announced it would suspend all recreational activities at the lake. That includes paddleboarding, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Swimming is already prohibited in the lake.
Park visitors are recommended to exercise caution to prevent health issues because exposure to sewage can cause illness. Officials provided the following safety tips:
Do not let children or pets play near the affected area.
Avoid letting bare skin come into contact with lake water.
Wash hands, clothing and footwear thoroughly after being in the area.
Winton Woods is a 2,529-acre park located in Springfield Township and Greenhills, north of Cincinnati. Its 113-site campground abuts the lake, which runs through the park.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: 'Elevated' E. coli levels found in Winton Lake after sewage discharge