Definitions of Water Quality Designations
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The RiverCast Water Quality Designations provide recommendations about the
suitability of the river for various recreational activities based upon
predicted levels of bacteria in the river at a given time. The suitability of
the water depends upon the type of recreational activity and the extent of
contact with the water.
Direct contact recreation is also called "primary" contact recreation by state
and federal authorities. As shown in the table below, primary contact
recreation includes any activity that is likely to cause immersion in the water
and includes jet skiing, swimming, kayaking, wading, and water skiing.
Secondary contact recreation is not likely to cause immersion in the water and
is therefore less impacted by changes in water quality. Secondary contact
includes but is not limited to rowing, power boating, and fishing.
The table below provides a summary of RiverCast Water Quality Designations as
they relate to specific recreational activities.
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Summary
of RiverCast Water Quality Designations
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GREEN - Predicted bacteria levels are low; water quality is suitable for all activities
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| Contact |
Activity |
RiverCast Recommendation |
| primary |
jet skiing
wakeboarding
water skiing
kayaking
swimming events
wading |
Suitable |
| secondary |
canoeing
sculling/rowing
power boating
fishing |
Suitable |
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YELLOW - Predicted bacteria levels are elevated; water quality may not be suitable for all activities
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| Contact |
Activity |
RiverCast Recommendation |
| primary |
jet skiing
wakeboarding
water skiing
kayaking
swimming events
wading |
May not be suitable |
| secondary |
canoeing
sculling/rowing
power boating
fishing |
Suitable |
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RED - Predicted bacteria levels are high; water quality may not be suitable for most activities
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| Contact |
Activity |
RiverCast Recommendation |
| primary |
jet skiing
wakeboarding
water skiing
kayaking
swimming events
wading |
May not be suitable |
| secondary |
canoeing
sculling/rowing
power boating
fishing |
May not be suitable* |
*
recreation may not be suitable due to high flows, poor bottom visibility, or
physical drowning dangers associated with these conditions and is up to the
individual to determine based on other criteria including boating advisories
and recommendations by the proper authorities.
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