How do E. coli and other fecal coliforms get in the water?
Fecal contamination can arise from sources such as combined sewer overflows, leaking septic tanks, sewer malfunctions, contaminated storm drains, animal feedlots, and other sources. During rainfalls, snow melts, or other types of precipitation, E. coli may be washed into creeks, rivers, streams, lakes, or ground water. When these waters are used as sources of drinking water and the water is not treated or inadequately treated, E. coli may end up in drinking water.
