E.Coli in the Watersheds

The watershed map on the right shows in red waterways that do not support a Recreational Use designation (EPA). Those not in red have not been assessed yet.

Failing septic systems are thought to be a primary source of the E. coli impacting this designation. Data collected by TRC and others show E. coli numbers that exceed levels that are not recommended for partial or total water body contact.

Michigan Senate Bill 771 (Jan 2026) aims to improve the performance of septic systems throughout the state. Please consider reaching out to your senator and asking them to support this bill. Michigan's waterways deserve more.

Learn more about Senate Bill 771.

Additional Resources

Michigan Statewide Septic Legislation

Michigan Statewide septic code information

E.coli Monitoring - Part 1

Two Rivers Coalition has been conducting E.Coli testing in both watersheds since 2017.

E.coli Monitoring - Part 2

The latest testing conducted in 2021 and 2022 shows that there is a serious problem with E.coli contamination in both watersheds. The source of the E.coli is shocking.

Michigan's E.coli Pollution and Solution Mapper

Explore Michigan’s watersheds with this interactive ArcGIS map.

Flow Water Advocates: The Pine River Stories

A recent study on the Pine River reveals that E. coli contamination isn’t just a water‑quality number—it’s showing up on fish and anglers’ hands.

Maintaining Your Septic System

Maintaining Your Septic System is Very Important to Water Quality

FLOW Webinar - Urgent Need for Statewide Septic Code

Links to the presentation and live recording are in the short article.

2023 Attempt to get a statewide septic bill

In honor of Earth Day 2023, Legislators introduce bills to establish statewide septic code.