• DC Water has completed soil removal, utilizing excavators and manual digging, to expose the clay lining for the C & O Canal between locks 13 and 14. This is the final step in the clean-up process before work can begin to rebuild the canal.
• Work continues on the remaining lock sections, with soil removal nearing completion between locks 12 and 13, and sludge removal – the first step in the cleaning process - also underway between locks 11 and 12.
• Site preparations continue for the previously planned long-term rehabilitation of the Potomac Interceptor that will accelerate the rehabilitation of more than 2700 linear feet of the pipeline in this area.
• Excavation has begun on a third slip lining site along Clara Barton Parkway outside the I-495 Beltway as part of the pipe’s rehabilitation. During slip lining, new pipe sections are inserted into the existing pipe to reinforce and strengthen the pipe to like-new condition.

Water Quality Sampling Results

It's important to understand that rain, snow, heat, contaminated runoff, and natural sources of E. coli such as wildlife can cause higher bacteria levels in urban rivers such as the Potomac River. 

As there have been no overflows to the river from the Potomac Interceptor for more than a month prior to completion of emergency repairs, fluctuations in measurements are more likely due to these other known factors.

For the Potomac River, historical water quality data shows E. coli levels may vary from a range as low as 10 MPN/100mL to as much as 5,000 MPN/100mL on a given day. A more detailed explanation is posted on the District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) website at doee.dc.gov/release/potomac-interceptor-update-and-faqs.

Sample results from March 23 - present are below. Past results may be found here.

For the latest updates and information, including how to provide feedback on the environmental rehabilitation, go to our dedicated Potomac Interceptor Response page.