Retest clears Turlock water after positive tests for bacteria

Two tests came back positive in November for bacteria in a water system serving 26 central Turlock customers, officials said Friday.

Follow-up testing showed the bacteria were not harmful to humans -- Fecal coliform or E. coli -- according to the city of Modesto, which operates the system.

"No one was in danger," said Allen Lagarbo, deputy director of Public Works -- Water Operations. "The retesting proved the water was safe and clear."

The state requires water quality testing and notification to customers when contaminants exceed the maximum levels. The Department of Public Health sets drinking water standards and has determined that the presence of total coliform bacteria is a possible health concern.

Total coliform are common in the environment and are generally not harmful themselves. The presence of these bacteria in drinking water generally is a result of a problem with water treatment or the pipes that distribute the water, and indicates that the water may be contaminated with organisms that can cause disease.