Environmental agencies investigate Clear Creek discoloration

DENVER (KDVR) — The Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Tuesday afternoon that the county’s Environmental Health Department is investigating discolored water in Clear Creek.

At this time, first responders say there is no need to call 911. However, the sheriff’s office initially warned people to avoid contact with the creek.

Shortly thereafter, government social media accounts posted that the discoloration is not a public health issue and should clear up “shortly.”

A Clear Creek County public information officer said the government believes a sediment pond had become blocked and overflowed in Lawson, but did not have many details.

That would make the discolored water lead down Interstate 70 near its intersection with U.S. 40 toward Idaho Springs. Clear Creek’s total watershed spans 575 square miles.

Around 3 p.m. FOX31’s Rogelio Mares noted that the color change was visible in Dumont.

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