MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Health advisories will remain in effect for at least two Martin County waterways until at least Monday.
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Signs alerting boaters and others to high bacteria in the water will remain in place at Leighton Park in Palm City and at the Roosevelt Bridge in Stuart.
Wolfgang Geihe was out rowing on the St. Lucie River Wednesday.
"The beauty is you’re all by yourself and the silence of the water," said Geihe.
Rowing has been an integral part of Geihe’s life. As a crew member and later a coach, he loved the team aspect, but he also loves rowing alone.
"The environment, and it’s very enjoyable," Geihe added.
So when Geihe saw signs outside the Treasure Coast Rowing Club warning of high bacteria levels, it depressed him. He took extra care not to flip in the water on Wednesday.
"We've got to do something and we’ve got to have increased environmental awareness. That’s the key," said Geihe.
The bacteria advisories will remain in effect until consecutive samples show acceptable levels, according to the Florida Department of Health. Enteric bacteria can be a sign of fecal pollution.
Geihe said while he can’t see clear down to the bottom of the St. Lucie River, this was a better day.
"The water was good today. I really can’t complain that much," Geihe said.
The next round of water samples will be collected on Monday.