Is it safe to play? We monitor water quality, so you don’t have to wonder.
As of July 28, 2021 the water quality at the Swim Reservoir AND the wading area near the children's playground in Lithia Park do not meet State of Oregon criteria. It is recommended that you not get in the water.
Ashland Creek meanders through Lithia Park. Water quality in Ashland Creek varies, due to many factors in our watershed. The City of Ashland monitors E. coli levels weekly, May through October. We share these results by changing the status of the water samples, which is either GREEN or RED.
What does E. coli bacteria mean to you?
E. coli is a bacteria found naturally in the digestive tracts of humans and many other animals. Not all E. coli cause disease; however, high E. coli counts can also be an indicator of other pathogens. Water that exceeds the State’s E. coli standards should not be ingested, and you are strongly urged to stay out of the creek. We share these results by changing the color of the sign. Signs are posted at the children's playground and at the Swim Reservoir in Lithia Park (both locations are along Ashland Creek).
For more info visit TheSwimGuide.org. If you see water pollution, please call 541.488.5340.
