Parts Of The Allegheny River Remain Unusable After Sewage Is Released

OLEAN – Health officials in Cattaraugus County are warning residents to avoid parts of the Allegheny River after sewage discharge was released into the water earlier this month.

The untreated water has resulted in a high fecal bacterial count in the river from the South Fourth Street pump station to the South First Street pump station in the Village of Allegany.

Officials ask residents to avoid swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing or any activity that would bring them in direct contact with the river.

Exposure to untreated sewage can cause illness and viral infections such as Hepatitis A, officials said.

Health officials said they will continue to sample and monitor the river’s fecal bacteria counts and update the public when it is safe to use the waterway again.