News Release

RESULTS OF VERDE RIVER SAMPLING REVEALS LOW LEVELS OF BACTERIUM.

Date: March 6, 2020
Contact: Laura Varon-Burkhart, 928-649-6195 x229
Contact: Tina Greenawalt, 928-649-6195 x227

National Park Service hydrologists recently completed quarterly water sampling in the Verde River within Tuzigoot National Monument and detected low levels of an unknown bacterium. Sampling occurred shortly after a high flow event in late January and the detection is likely related to that event.

High flow events often disturb sediment and vegetation surfaces, which are sources of bacteria. While the amount detected was well below the minimum standards for Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, we want to make the public aware since river recreation is a popular activity in the Verde Valley. Scientists from Arizona Department of Environmental Quality will be collecting additional samples in the next week. We will provide more information as it becomes available.

If you plan to be in the Verde River it is recommended that you practice healthy habits of washing your hands and body after recreating and avoid swimming after rain events.

If you have questions, please contact Tina Greenawalt, Natural Resource Program Manager at 928-649-6195 x227 or at e-mail us.