CDPHE Lifts John Martin Reservoir Recreation Advisory After E. Coli Levels Return to Safe Standards

Description: CDPHE has lifted the John Martin Reservoir water contact advisory after testing showed E. coli levels returned to state recreational standards. The Arkansas River advisory remains in effect through La Junta. Read the Full Press Release...

CDPHE lifts recreation advisory for John Martin Reservoir

Denver (September 4, 2026): The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), in coordination with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and local public health partners, is lifting the water contact advisory for John Martin Reservoir, effective immediately. Water quality sampling consistently confirms that E. coli concentrations in the reservoir have returned to levels consistent with state recreational standards.

We initially issued the advisory to protect public health after a 4.2-million-gallon untreated sewage spill in Pueblo traveled downstream along the Arkansas River corridor. We will continue sampling the reservoir over the next several days and will inform the public if anything changes. 

"Our priority throughout this event has been to protect public health through rigorous science and rapid, transparent communication," said Nicole Rowan, Water Quality Control Division director. "Thanks to coordinated sampling efforts with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and local partners, we have verified that E. coli levels at John Martin Reservoir are back within standard thresholds, allowing us to restore full recreational access."

"Multiple safe readings over several days gives us confidence to lift the sewage-related advisory," said Dan Kirmer, John Martin Reservoir State Park manager. "Testing will continue through the weekend and in the days ahead, and we will keep visitors informed.”

The water contact advisory remains in place for the Arkansas River from where Fountain Creek meets the Arkansas through La Junta, as E. coli results in those locations remain elevated. CDPHE and Colorado Parks and Wildlife water resources staff will continue monitoring along the Arkansas River basin to ensure ongoing compliance with state water quality standards.

For updated testing results and park conditions, visit the CDPHE Water Quality website and the John Martin Reservoir State Park Webpage.

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