LAKE HELEN, Fla. — Officials in the City of Lake Helen learned on Sept. 12, 2026, that a monthly assessment sample collected from Well #2 tested positive for E. coli. Well #2 was immediately taken offline while utility workers prepare to conduct follow-up testing.
Residents do not need to boil their water or take other corrective actions. All additional samples collected from other wells and the distribution system on the same date tested negative for bacteria.
Testing was conducted as part of routine monthly monitoring. Under the Environmental Protection Agency Ground Water Rule, the utility must collect additional samples from Well #2 to evaluate the extent of the issue. Well #2 will remain offline until follow-up sampling confirms that contamination is no longer present.
Fecal indicators are microbes that signal water may be contaminated with human or animal waste. Microbes in these wastes can cause short-term health effects, including diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and headaches. These microbes can pose higher risks for infants, young children, elderly individuals, and people with severely compromised immune systems. Residents with health concerns or persistent symptoms are advised to consult a health care provider.
Residents looking for more information can call US Water Services at 866-753-8292.
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