EPHRATA -  Ephrata's water department discovered non-acute coliform in the water in the southwest section of the city.

The city conducts bi-weekly testing on its water, and discovered the indicator bacteria twice in September. The area affected was between 13th and 18th avenues southwest and between C and Basin streets.

"The coliform detected were classified by state standards as non-acute. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment, and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, bacteria may be present," according to a statement from the city. "Samples, including each well in operation, were tested further to determine whether those other bacteria of greater concern were present. No such bacteria were found."

The coliform found is generally considered harmless, according to the statement. No boil order was issued.

"State Department of Health literature suggests that people with very weak immune systems could have increased risk," according to the statement. "Contact your health care provider if you require additional guidance."

City officials don't know how the bacteria entered the water system. Similar instances have occurred during construction when a new pipe is connected, and debris breaks loose from the existing pipes, according to the statement.

"During the past week, there were times that all the city's pumps were in operation, which may have loosened some debris from some older lines. As an additional precaution the area affected was chlorinated and flushed at length", according to the statement. "Samples taken since that time have returned clean and free from bacteria."

Chlorinating the water would eliminate the issue, according to the city's statement. An engineering study took place in the summer to determine costs and methods of adding chlorine to its water system.

"The water system master plan, including an evaluation of how chlorination would affect rates, is currently underway and will be presented to the city council in October," according to the statement.

For more information, contact Ephrata City Hall at 509-754-4601.