Rogue Riverkeeper’s field work is designed on contribute helpful information to chronic water pollution issues in the Rogue Basin so we can find solutions. Our streams violate water quality standards for temperature, bacteria, sedimentation and other pollutants, yet there is often not enough information about these problems to identify the root causes, find lasting solutions and advocate for change that results in better water quality.
Bacteria Sourcing: There are hundreds of stream miles in the Rogue Basin that have elevated levels of bacteria, including E. Coli, which can be harmful to human health. In 2010, Rogue Riverkeeper coordinated a study on Ashland Creek to look closely at what was contributing to a chronic bacteria problem in this popular creek. We organized with more than a dozen community volunteers, Southern Oregon University, the city of Ashland and Oregon DEQ to conduct the study, author a report and make recommendations for action to ameliorate the pollution.
Far from being an Ashland Creek specific issue, E. coli and coliform bacteria levels are of concern throughout the Rogue River Basin. In addition to Ashland Creek, other waterways in the Rogue Basin have at least part of their length exceeding health standards include the maintstem Rogue River, Illinois River, Applegate River, Little and Big Butte Creeks, Bear Creek, Evans Creek, and numerous smaller tributaries. In 2011, Rogue Riverkeeper is focusing its field work effort on another stream in the Rogue Basin that is plagued with persistent bacteria pollution problems.