OTTAWA COUNTY, MI)—The Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) is asking the public to avoid water contact in the area of Lloyds Bayou Creek (the Creek) between the North Bank Trail and M-104 following an untreated sewage spill on Sunday, May 10. A No Body Contact Advisory is in effect for these waters starting today, May 11. Visitors should not enter or touch the water in the Creek.
Approximately 50,000 gallons of untreated sewage were spilled on Sunday, May 10. The spill has been stopped and Spring Lake Public Works is working to actively resolve the issue. OCDPH was informed of the spill by Spring Lake Public Works today, May 11.
“Body contact” includes any direct skin contact with the water, including swimming, wading, or walking in the water. Contact also includes fishing, kayaking, canoeing, touching the water or water’s edge with bare hands, handling equipment or gear (including bait) that has been in the water, and any activity that may cause splashing. Visitors should also keep children and pets away from the water’s edge until the advisory is lifted.
Sewage-contaminated water can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that may cause stomach and intestinal illness, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as skin infections. The water might appear clean, but can still pose health risks. Anyone who has recently been in contact with the Creek should take the following steps:
- Wash all exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, or mouth before you have washed your hands.
- Watch for symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or skin irritation.
- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms develop and inform them of possible exposure to sewage-contaminated water.
This advisory will remain in effect until water samples have been collected and tested and results confirm it is safe to resume water contact. OCDPH will issue an update when it is safe to have contact with the water again.
To report a health-related concern, visit miottawa.org/concern or call 616-393-5645.
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