LUCKY PEAK -- With the temperatures on the rise, you could be tempted to head over to Robie Creek Beach for a cool dip.
However, a recent outbreak of E. Coli bacteria might change those plans.
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) says there is a certain amount of bacteria that occurs naturally in water. However, the department's most recents tests at Robie Creek Beach are beyond their water quality standards.
"We just recommend that you not be swimming or wading," said Lauri Monnot of the DEQ.
Monnot says bacteria occur naturally in water. But the levels at Robie Creek Beach were beyond DEQ's water quality standards.
"They monitor either every two weeks or weekly. The last couple years they've been doing weekly," said Monnot.
She also says E Coli levels are often a problem at this beach this time of year, because "as the water warms up, there's more bacteria and they breed quicker."
E Coli is found in mammals' digestive systems. This means it's likely coming from human or animal waste.
"We will look at the usual indicators. They're have been problems in the past with geese on that beach," Monnot explained.
Monnot says swallowing the water at Robie Creek Beach can make you sick. But if you have it on your body and then it gets in your mouth, you can still get sick.
