The City of Three Rivers, in consultation with the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency, lifted the No Contact Health Advisory for the St. Joseph River from the Broadway Street Bridge to South Constantine Street Bridge. Residents can now enjoy the river for recreational activities.

The advisory was issued Monday, after the Three Rivers Wastewater Treatment Plant reported an overflow of approximately 50,000 gallons of untreated wastewater into the river at 3:30 p.m.

Water samples collected Wednesday and analyzed Thursday showed that fecal coliform levels in the St. Joseph River are now within acceptable limits, Wastewater Superintendent Taylor Davis reported.

Coliform bacteria are naturally present in surface water and can increase with heavy rainfall due to surface runoff. While contact with coliform-contaminated water can cause illness, bathing and washing clothes after contact can prevent infection.

The City of Three Rivers reminds residents to avoid ingesting water from the river and to bathe after coming into contact with it. Young children and seniors are at a higher risk of illness from exposure. Anyone experiencing symptoms of upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever should consult their healthcare provider.