Placerville, CA - The County continues to warn the public to avoid all contact with the stormwater
drainage in the vicinity of the El Dorado Trial near the end of Stage Court due to a high pH level. This
includes avoiding drinking, fishing, swimming, and wading in the water. The County further warns that
consumption of any stormwater should be avoided. Stormwater may not meet California drinking
water quality standards and may contain trace amounts of pesticides, metals, oils, and other
constituents not suitable for drinking.
On January 28, 2016, the County of El Dorado Community Development Agency issued a press
release advising the public to avoid contact with stormwater in the vicinity of the El Dorado Trail near
the end of Stage Court due to high alkaline levels, which have been determined to be caused by
water that contains calcium hydroxide (i.e. made up of calcium and hydroxide ions). The area of
concern along the El Dorado Trail has been clearly posted with warning signs, caution tape and
temporary fencing.
The pH in a limited area of this water has tested above 12.5, which is highly alkaline; however, due to
the type of substance causing the elevated pH, the water presents a low health risk. The County
advises that casual contact with this water is not likely to produce any harmful effects. It would take
extended or repeated exposures to irritate the skin. Eyes are more sensitive and would be irritated
sooner.
Staff continues to work closely with the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board
(CVRWQCB), other State agencies, and the County Public Health Officer on this issue. The County
is evaluating potential mitigation measures for this issue and will continue to monitor and sample
water in the area throughout the rain season.
For additional information regarding stormwater in the El Dorado Trail area please contact the
Environmental Management Division at (530) 621-5300, or visit
www.edcgov.us/EMD/Stormwater_Drainage_Containing_Elevated_pH_Levels_Near_El_Dorado
_Trail.aspx
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