Nebraska Administrative Code
Topic - ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
Title 117 - NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Chapter 4 - STANDARDS FOR WATER QUALITY
Section 117-4-002 - Primary Contact Recreation

Current through November 25, 2023

This use applies to surface waters which are used, or have a high potential to be used, for primary contact recreational activities. Primary contact recreation includes activities where the body may come into prolonged or intimate contact with the water, such that water may be accidentally ingested and sensitive body organs (e.g., eyes, ears, nose, etc.) may be exposed. Although the water may be accidentally ingested, it is not intended to be used as a potable water supply unless acceptable treatment is applied. These waters may be used for swimming, water skiing, canoeing, and similar activities. These criteria apply during the recreational period of May 1 through September 30.

002.01 E. coli.

E. coli bacteria are not to exceed a geometric mean of 126/100 ml. For increased confidence of the criteria, the geometric mean should be based on a minimum of five samples taken within a 30-day period. This does not preclude fecal coliform limitations based on effluent guidelines. The following single sample maxima will be used solely for issuing periodic public advisories regarding use of waterbodies for Primary Contact Recreation.

002.01A 235/100 ml at designated bathing beaches.

002.01B 298/100 ml at moderately used recreational waters.

002.01C 406/100 ml at lightly used recreational waters.

002.01D 576/100 ml at infrequently used recreational waters.

002.02 Toxic Substances.

These waters are to be free from toxic substances, alone or in combination with other substances, in concentrations that result in adverse health impacts to humans participating in primary contact recreation.

Amended effective 12/13/2014.

Amended effective 6/24/2019

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Nebraska may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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