Umpqua Hot Springs Closed Due to Health Concerns -- No Swimming, Soaking or Wading
Release Date: Sep 23, 2015
Contact: Lucero Hernandez, (541) 957-3411
Forest Service officials announced an emergency closure of the Umpqua Hot Springs due to health and safety concerns. A recent water quality test detected very high E. coli counts. The hot springs does not meet health standards for swimming, soaking or wading; therefore, those activities are prohibited until further notice.
“There are serious concerns about the sanitation at the hot springs after testing found a high E. coli count,” said Steve Marchi, Recreation Staff Officer of the Umpqua National Forest. “This poses a serious health risk to the public if they were to recreate in the water. We’re evaluating ways to improve the water quality and management at the Umpqua Hot Springs,” continued Marchi.
The public is asked to stay out of the surface waters in and around the hot springs. Testing of the North Umpqua River found no contamination directly below the hot springs.
Access to Umpqua Hot Springs Trailhead and Trail 1444 remain open. Trailhead fees will be waived during the closure. The Umpqua Hot Springs segment of the North Umpqua Trail is open.
Signs posted at the Umpqua Hot Springs warn visitors of the health risks and law enforcement plans to increase patrol. Umpqua National Forest officials will test the water at a future date and notify the public once it is safe to enter the hot springs.
For more information about the closure, see "Forest Order and Map" below or contact the Diamond Lake Ranger District at (541) 498-2531. Like us on facebook.com/UmpquaNationalForest for updates.