Fecal Matter in White Marsh Run More Than 400 Times Healthy Levels: Report

WHITE MARSH, MD — White Marsh Run is filled with fecal waste and people should avoid contact, especially after it rains, environmental officials said in a report this week.

The level of bacteria from fecal matter in White Marsh Run is at least 400 times higher than safety standards permit, according to testing conducted by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation this summer.

"It puts the health of residents who swim, wade or come into contact with these waters at risk," Alison Prost, Maryland Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, said in a statement.

White Marsh Run feeds the Bird River, which is a popular kayaking and swimming spot, officials said, noting that the further down the river, the more diluted the bacteria became.

The testing found baseline levels of bacteria in White Marsh Run were unhealthy and were exacerbated after rainfall, including the storm that dropped 0.8 inch of rain on Aug. 2.

Honeygo Run was also found to have unhealthy levels of bacteria from fecal matter.

The Gunpowder River had small amounts of the bacteria and was not considered unhealthy unless it rained, in which case indicators of fecal matter increased sharply.

The bacteria is attributed to runoff, which occurs when it rains and the rainfall mixes with pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides and other substances on rooftops, parking lots and streets, then enters waterways.

As a general rule, the Maryland Department of Environment advises avoiding contact with any natural water for 48 hours after a significant storm due to polluted runoff.

Pictured, White Marsh Run. Photo Credit: USGS.